UPDATES ON THE INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF THE MAIN SUGARCANE PESTS IN BRAZIL: A REVIEW OF THE LAST 10 YEARS

Abstract

The main pests of sugarcane are: Sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis), Root borer (Mahanarva fimbriolata), Migdolus beetle (Migdolus fryanus), Sugarcane beetle (Sphenophorus levis), Giant borer (Telchin licus), Leaf borer (Mahanarva posticata), Beetle (Metamasius hemipterus), Termites, Chickweed (Diloboderus abderus) and Hairy borer (Hyponeuma). This figure demonstrates the importance of investing in efficient sugarcane pest management strategies to avoid losses. The aim of this research is to present the latest updates on sugarcane pests, covering aspects such as biology, geographical distribution, economic impact and management strategies. This paper is an integrative literature review, aimed at synthesizing existing knowledge, which makes it possible not only to analyse studies that have already been carried out, but also to open up new research. Pest attacks on sugarcane crops cause qualitative and quantitative damage, and the populations of the different species must be controlled in order to avoid losses. The use of different control methods, combined with chemical and biological, reduces the populations and attacks of these pests, which improves the productivity and quality of the raw material for the production of its end products. These pests represent an on going challenge for the production of this crop in Brazil. Although traditional pests still cause significant damage, the emergence of new threats and resistance to insecticides require the adoption of more integrated and sustainable management strategies. Investment in research, training producers and the adoption of innovative technologies are fundamental to guaranteeing the productivity and sustainability of sugarcane in the country.