Effect of the application of paraffinic oil on the control and population fluctuation of the sugarcane aphid (Melanaphis sacchari Zehntner) in sorghum

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of different doses of paraffinic oil (SAT-T-SIDE®) and to assess the population fluctuation of the sugarcane aphid (Melanaphis sacchari) during sorghum crop development. Design/methodology/approach: Two experiments were conducted, one under field conditions and the other in a greenhouse. In both experiments, a randomized complete block design with eight treatments and four replications was used. Winged adults were counted. In addition, a pre-evaluation was carried out five days prior to treatment application. After application, the number of insects per plant was recorded, and the biological effectiveness of the treatments was also evaluated. Data were analyzed using the SAS statistical package, and a Tukey mean comparison test (α ≤ 0.05) was performed as a complementary analysis. Results: Treatment application resulted in effective pest control, exceeding 80% under field conditions and 90% under greenhouse conditions, with higher effectiveness observed under controlled environments. The highest dose of Saf-T-Side® applied in both field and greenhouse experiments was the most effective for controlling the sugarcane aphid. Study limitations/implications: The use of paraffinic oil represents a viable alternative for the management of the sugarcane aphid; however, its efficiency is lower than that of conventional chemical control. Findings/conclusions: Adult populations of Melanaphis sacchari showed higher incidence after the first 60 days of crop development. The high dose of Saf-T-Side® was the most effective treatment for controlling the sorghum aphid.