Question

The damage symptom of blister spots toward leaf tip in rice is caused by

• A. White rice leaf hopper, Cofana spectra
• B. Rice hispa, Dicladispa armigera
• C. Rice striped bug, Tetroda histeroides
• D. Whorl maggot, Hydrellia philippina

Hint:

Tip-drying accompanied by blister-like feeding spots on rice leaves is a classic symptom of infestation by the pentatomid rice striped bug, Tetroda histeroides.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Different insect pests of rice (Oryza sativa) cause distinct, characteristic damage symptoms on leaves, stems, or panicles.
Recognizing these symptoms is critical for identifying the pest in the field and selecting appropriate control measures.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us review the damage symptoms of the listed rice pests:
- Cofana spectra (White rice leafhopper): Causes general yellowing and drying of leaves due to sap-feeding, but does not form blister-like spots.
- Dicladispa armigera (Rice hispa): Larvae mine the leaves, producing prominent white streaks, while adults scrape the green leaf tissue, leaving white patches.
- Hydrellia philippina (Rice whorl maggot): Larvae feed on the unopened leaves, causing white or yellowish margins and distorted leaves when they unfold.
- Tetroda histeroides (Rice striped bug): This pentatomid bug feeds on the sap of leaf blades, especially toward the leaf tips.
Its feeding punctures cause localized cellular collapse, resulting in characteristic brown, blister-like spots or "blister spots" near the leaf tip. This can eventually lead to tip drying.
Therefore, the rice striped bug is the pest responsible for this symptom.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (C).