Landing Places of Migratory Planthoppers, Nilaparvata lugens (STÅL) and Sogatella furcifera (HORVATH) (Homoptera : Delphacidae) in Japan

Abstract

Migratory planthoppers, Nilaparvata lugens (STÅL) and Sogatella furcifera (HORVATH), both migrate from abroad to Japan every year. Tsubo is the term used for lowland paddy fields where the planthoppers usually make their first landing. In order to identify and examine the general features of Tsubo, a nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted in 1986 and 1987. Two typical types of Tsubo were identified by topographical conditions and wind direction. One type is located on the east side of hills sheltered from westerly winds and is generally found along the coast. The other type is located at the end of valleys facing windward. Migration of planthoppers to Japan takes place during the rainy season (usually early June to mid July) when the prevailing wind is from the southwest. The airborne insects generally land on the side of hills away from the wind or in a protected valley facing windward. Survey of the planthopper population in Tsubo early in the season will aid in the assessment of planthopper abundance in any given year.