Several plots of padi fields under the management of the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) in Perlis have been hit by an infestation of leaf roller moth caterpillar.

This infestation has resulted in crop damage and stunted padi growth, significantly impacting farmers' income.

The caterpillars, commonly known as white caterpillars, are the larvae of the leaf roller moth — a persistent threat to padi farmers during each planting season.

Padi farmer Ku Hashiam Ku Bakar, 66, who manages a 2ha padi field in Permatang Keriang, Simpang Empat, said the caterpillar attacks began two weeks ago.

"We've seen a noticeable increase in these infestations this season. While they occur every year, this season appears to be more severe than usual.

"These infestations can seriously affect farmers' yields, leading to lower incomes compared to last season due to the damage inflicted on the padi crops.

"The caterpillars are believed to originate from moths that lay their eggs on padi leaves, with the larvae thriving in unpredictable weather conditions," he said when met yesterday (Aug 27).

Ku Hashiam, who is also E1 Simpang Empat Area Farmers' Organisation board of directors chairman, said pesticide spraying was conducted in several parts of his padi field to prevent further damage.

Meanwhile, state Agriculture, Plantation, and Food Industry Committee chairman, Razali Saad, said although this issue arises every planting season, it had become more severe this year.

He said during the first planting season this year, around 700.19ha were affected by caterpillars, compared with approximately 698ha during the first season last year.

"Although only 20 per cent of Mada's total padi planting area is affected, this has impacted the income of about 352 farmers in this area, especially in the E1 Simpang Empat area."

Razali, who is also Simpang Empat assemblyman, said initial estimates indicate farmers' incomes have dropped by 40 per cent due to this infestation.

"The state government has already contacted the relevant agricultural agencies to hold discussions on finding a solution to this issue. For now, the infestation has not reached emergency levels, but further monitoring and investigation by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry are required."

The leaf roller moth can lay up to 250 eggs and must be eradicated quickly as it can reproduce rapidly, with larvae hatching within just five days.

At this stage, the larvae or caterpillars attack the leaves from the early growth stages until the padi bear fruit by rolling the leaves and joining them at the tips. The larvae then feed on the green part of the leaves, leaving only the cuticle, thereby damaging the leaf structure.

Source - https://api.nst.com.my