Effect of Rainstorms upon the Cotton Jassid

Empoasca lybica de Berg., a pest of cotton in the Sudan Gezira Scheme, invades the seedling crop
early in September, the infestation normally reaching its maximum intensity in the last half of
November. Hanna1 records that peak populations of this insect are affected by rainstorms of 10
mm. and more in July and August as well as by dust storms in September. Field observations by
Cowland and Hanna2 suggest that populations upon cotton are also affected by rainstorms in
September. Rainstorms, probably because of the mud which splashes on to the lower leaves, reduce
the number of jassids infesting the cotton. Those findings which concerned the direct effect of
rainstorms upon jassids at nine sites in the northern part of the Sudan Gezira were not reported by
Hanna1 in his published paper on rainfall and jassid numbers.
The late rains of September-October 1955 furnished three occasions on which to investigate the
effects of rainstorms directly upon jassids infesting standing cotton.
A rainstorm of 10·6 mm. occurred during the afternoon of September 25, 1955, at the Gezira
Research Farm. That morning, because of the hot humid weather associated with an approaching
storm, counts of jassids in an observation plot (laid out for another purpose) had to be abandoned
after two subplots had been examined. Next day, counts on remaining subplots were completed.
The mean number of jassid nymphs per plant in the six sub
plots of the experiment are shown in Table 1. On September 26 there were in all cases fewer
jassids on the plants than on September 21, although from the incomplete count on September 25
the mean population per plant had increased during the previous four days. The figures from
subplot II clearly show how the increase of population is followed
Table 2. CHANGES OF JASSID POPULATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH A RAINSTORM IN THE
Counts were made on October 2 and 4 of the number of jassid nymphs per 100 leaves at random in
each subplot of a five-feddan field (about 5 ·2 acres). The field was divided longitudinally into
three equal strips and each strip contained 20 subplots. During the afternoon of October 3, 9 ·3
mm. of rain fell upon this field at the Gezira Research Farm.
There were thus sixty pairs of 'before and after' rain counts of jassids in the same subplots. The
mean decrease of population of 20 ·0 to 12 ·8 jassids per subplot was significant at 1 per cent
level. There was, however, no significant difference between the twenty pairs of counts in the
middle strip, although the pairs of counts in the subplots along the east and west edges of the field
were significantly different at 1 and O • l per cent levels respectively.
A particularly striking example of the check of jassid numbers associated with a rainstorm in a
roughly triangular area of about 300 square miles in the northern Gezira occurred on September 26,
1955. Within that area rain-gauges registered between 16 and 29 mm. of rain ; outside the area
gauges showed a 'trace' to 5 mm. ; this was the last storm of the season in that area. Table 2 shows
the relevant jassid count per 100 leaves.
Between the 'before and after' rain counts inside the storm area, the observed mean fall of
population is significant at 1 per cent level, while beyond the storm zone the increase of
population in the same period, September 23--30, is significant at the 1 per cent level. Inside the
storm area, all counts on September 30 were less than the corresponding count on September 23 ;
but outside the storm zone the exact reverse was true.
A map showing the locality of the sampling areas and rain gauges has been deposited at the British
Museum (Natural History), South Kensington.
,Vhile the checks to breeding associated with rain storms tend to delay the build-up of jassid
population on cotton, observation at the end of November, the time of peak populations, showed
no marked differ ences in the number of insects on the cotton within and beyond the storm area of
September 26.
We wish to thank the Chief of the Research Division and the General Manager of the Sudan Gezira
Board for permission to publish this communication.
Jassids are a type of insect pest that can have a negative impact on cotton crops. The amount of
rainfall can also affect the severity of the damage caused by jassids on cotton.

In general, dry weather conditions can worsen jassid infestations on cotton plants. This is because
jassids thrive in warm and dry environments. During dry periods, cotton plants may become
stressed and less able to defend themselves against insect pests like jassids. As a result, jassids may
feed more heavily on the cotton plants, causing more damage.
On the other hand, wet weather conditions can help to reduce jassid populations on cotton. This is
because high humidity and rainfall can create a less favorable environment for jassids, leading to
lower populations and less damage to the cotton plants.
Overall, the relationship between rainfall and jassid damage on cotton can be complex and may
depend on other factors such as temperature and crop management practices.
Jassids are a type of insect pest that can cause significant damage to cotton crops. The impact of
jassids on cotton production can be exacerbated by changes in rainfall patterns.
In areas where rainfall is limited, jassids may be more prevalent and cause more damage to cotton
crops. This is because drought-stressed plants are more vulnerable to insect attacks, and jassids
thrive in dry conditions.
On the other hand, excessive rainfall can also have a negative impact on cotton crops, as it can lead
to waterlogging and root rot, which weakens the plants and makes them more susceptible to jassid
infestations.
In summary, the effect of jassids on cotton production is influenced by a variety of factors,
including rainfall patterns. Adequate rainfall can help to prevent jassid infestations by keeping the
plants healthy, while drought conditions can increase the risk of jassid damage. However, excessive
rainfall can also be detrimental to cotton crops and make them more susceptible to insect pests like
jassids.
Jassids, also known as leafhoppers, are small insects that can cause significant damage to cotton
crops. The effect of rainfall on jassid populations and their impact on cotton yields can vary
depending on the timing and amount of rainfall.
In general, rainfall can have a beneficial effect on cotton crops by promoting growth and providing
moisture for the plants. However, heavy rainfall or extended periods of wet weather can also create
favorable conditions for jassid populations to thrive, leading to increased damage to the cotton
plants.
One way that rainfall can impact jassid populations is by creating more favorable conditions for
their natural predators, such as spiders and ladybugs, which can help to control their numbers. On
the other hand, excessive rainfall can also wash away these predators, allowing jassid populations to
grow unchecked.
In addition to rainfall, other factors such as temperature, humidity, and the use of pesticides can also
impact jassid populations and their impact on cotton yields. Proper management practices, such as
regular scouting and timely application of insecticides, can help to minimize the impact of jassids
on cotton crops.
Jassid is a type of insect that can cause damage to cotton crops. The impact of jassid on cotton
plants can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the amount of rainfall.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on cotton crops affected by jassid. On the one
hand, increased rainfall can help to reduce the number of jassids on the plants by washing them
away. This can help to protect the cotton plants from damage.
On the other hand, excessive rainfall can also promote the growth of weeds, which can attract more
jassids and other pests to the area. Additionally, heavy rainfall can also lead to waterlogging and
other issues that can negatively impact the growth and development of cotton plants.
Overall, the effect of rainfall on jassid damage to cotton crops can be complex and depend on a
variety of factors. It's important for farmers and agricultural experts to monitor and manage jassid
populations and their impact on cotton crops, taking into account factors like rainfall patterns and
other environmental conditions.
Jassid is a common pest that affects cotton plants. The impact of jassid on cotton plants can be
exacerbated during periods of low rainfall.
Jassids are sucking insects that feed on the sap of cotton plants. They cause damage to the leaves of
the cotton plant, which can lead to reduced photosynthesis and yield. When there is low rainfall, the
damage caused by jassids can be more severe. This is because cotton plants need adequate water to
maintain their health and recover from pest attacks. When there is a lack of rainfall, cotton plants
may not have enough water to recover from jassid damage.
In addition, jassids are attracted to dry conditions and may be more prevalent during periods of low
rainfall. This can lead to a higher infestation rate and more damage to cotton plants.
Overall, the combination of jassid infestation and low rainfall can have a significant negative effect
on cotton production. Proper pest management and irrigation are important to mitigate the impact of
jassids on cotton crops.
Jassids are sap-sucking insects that feed on cotton plants. They can cause significant damage to the
crop and reduce cotton yields. The impact of jassids on cotton production can be exacerbated or
mitigated by rainfall patterns.
In general, jassids tend to be more prevalent during dry weather conditions, as they are better
adapted to hot and dry environments. During dry spells, cotton plants may also be stressed and more
susceptible to damage from insect infestations. In contrast, during wetter periods with frequent
rainfall, the population of jassids may decline as they are less able to thrive in damp conditions.
However, excessive rainfall can also have negative effects on cotton production, as it can lead to
waterlogging and other problems that can weaken or kill the plants. Additionally, heavy rainfall can
also promote the growth of weeds, which can provide additional habitat for jassids and other pests.
In summary, the relationship between rainfall and jassids on cotton is complex, and depends on a
variety of factors including the timing, frequency, and intensity of precipitation, as well as the
overall health and condition of the cotton plants.
Jassid, also known as leafhoppers, are tiny insects that can cause damage to cotton plants. Their
feeding activity can cause yellowing, curling, and drying of cotton leaves, resulting in reduced plant
growth and ultimately lower cotton yield.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on cotton plants affected by jassids. On one
hand, rainfall can help to wash away jassids from cotton leaves, reducing their feeding activity and
minimizing damage. On the other hand, heavy rainfall can cause soil erosion, leading to nutrient
depletion and reduced water availability for cotton plants, which can exacerbate the negative effects
of jassid infestation.
In summary, while rainfall can help to mitigate the impact of jassids on cotton plants, the extent of
its effect depends on factors such as the intensity and duration of rainfall, as well as the severity of
jassid infestation.
Jassids are a type of insect that feed on cotton plants and can cause damage to the crop. The impact
of jassids on cotton plants can be influenced by various factors, including rainfall.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on jassid populations in cotton fields. On one
hand, rainfall can help to reduce the number of jassids by washing them off the plants or causing
fungal infections that can kill them. On the other hand, heavy rainfall can also create ideal
conditions for jassid reproduction and survival, leading to an increase in their numbers.
In general, the impact of rainfall on jassids in cotton fields will depend on the timing, amount, and
distribution of the rainfall. If rainfall is well-timed and evenly distributed, it can help to keep jassid
populations in check and prevent them from causing significant damage to the cotton crop.
However, if rainfall is too little or too much, or if it occurs at the wrong time, it can exacerbate the
problem and make it more difficult to control jassid populations.
Jassids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to cotton plants by reducing their
growth and yield. The impact of jassids on cotton can be influenced by a number of factors,
including rainfall.
Rainfall can have both direct and indirect effects on jassid populations and their impact on cotton.
Directly, rainfall can physically wash away jassids from the cotton plants, reducing their numbers
and damage. Indirectly, rainfall can influence plant growth and vigor, which can affect their ability
to tolerate or recover from jassid damage.
In areas with high rainfall, jassids may be less of a problem for cotton growers, as the insects may
be more likely to be washed away or reduced in number. However, in areas with low rainfall or
drought conditions, jassids may be more of a problem, as the cotton plants may be more stressed
and vulnerable to damage.
Overall, the effect of rainfall on jassids and their impact on cotton can vary depending on a range of
factors, including the timing, intensity, and duration of rainfall, as well as other environmental and
management factors.
Jassids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to cotton plants. Their
feeding activity can weaken the cotton plant and reduce its ability to produce a good yield. The
impact of jassids on cotton plants can be further exacerbated by rainfall.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on cotton plants. On the one hand, it can
provide much-needed moisture to the plants, helping them to grow and produce a healthy crop. On
the other hand, heavy rainfall can lead to waterlogging, which can suffocate the roots of the plants
and make them more susceptible to insect attacks like jassids.
When jassids feed on cotton plants that have been weakened by heavy rainfall, they can cause even
more damage. This is because the weakened plants are less able to defend themselves against the
insects, and may have a harder time recovering from the damage they cause.
In summary, the effect of jassids on cotton plants can be worsened by heavy rainfall, which can
weaken the plants and make them more vulnerable to insect damage.
Jassids are small, sap-sucking insects that can be a serious pest for cotton crops. The impact of
jassids on cotton depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the infestation, the
growth stage of the cotton plant, and the amount of rainfall.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on the impact of jassids on cotton. On the one
hand, rainfall can help to reduce the population of jassids by washing them off the plants.
Additionally, rainy weather can create a humid environment that is not ideal for jassids, which
prefer hot and dry conditions.
On the other hand, excessive rainfall can also have negative effects on cotton crops, including
increased susceptibility to jassids. This is because excessive moisture can lead to a weakening of the
plant, making it more vulnerable to insect damage. Additionally, excessive moisture can promote
the growth of weeds, which can provide shelter for jassids and other pests.
Overall, the impact of rainfall on jassids and cotton is complex and depends on a variety of factors.
Proper pest management practices, including monitoring and timely intervention, are essential for
minimizing the impact of jassids on cotton crops.
Jassids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can have a significant impact on cotton crops. Their
feeding activity can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced yield in cotton plants.
Rainfall can have both positive and negative effects on jassid infestations in cotton crops.
On one hand, rainfall can help to reduce the population of jassids in cotton fields by causing the
insects to be washed off the plants or drowned in standing water. Additionally, rainfall can improve
the overall health and vigor of cotton plants, making them more resistant to jassid damage.
On the other hand, heavy rainfall can create ideal breeding conditions for jassids, leading to a rapid
increase in population and more significant damage to cotton crops. Additionally, prolonged periods
of high humidity following rainfall can also promote the growth of fungi and other pathogens,
which can further weaken cotton plants and make them more susceptible to jassid damage.
Overall, the effect of rainfall on jassid infestations in cotton crops can be complex and may vary
depending on the timing, intensity, and duration of rainfall events, as well as other environmental
factors. Effective pest management strategies, such as early detection and prompt control measures,
are essential for minimizing the impact of jassids on cotton production.
Jassids are small insects that feed on cotton plants and can cause significant damage to the crops.
The impact of jassids on cotton plants can be worsened or alleviated depending on the amount of
rainfall the plants receive.
During periods of low rainfall, jassids tend to reproduce rapidly and infest cotton plants in large
numbers, causing significant damage to the crops. This is because the stress caused by water
shortage weakens the cotton plants, making them more susceptible to jassid attacks.
On the other hand, during periods of adequate rainfall, cotton plants are healthier and better
equipped to withstand jassid attacks. The presence of moisture in the soil also encourages the
growth of beneficial insects that prey on jassids, helping to control their populations.
In summary, the rainfall has a significant effect on the impact of jassids on cotton plants.
Insufficient rainfall can exacerbate the damage caused by jassids, while adequate rainfall can help
mitigate the damage and improve the overall health of the cotton crop.