Damage and yield losses to sugarcane caused by the stem borer Chilo sacchariphagus (Bojer) (Lep.: Pyralidae) in Reunion island

Damage and yield losses caused by the sugarcane stemborer were studied by m eans of field experiments using insecticide, in two agricultural farms. The results mainly showed a yield reduction in tons of cane, arising from dist urbances to the cane growth, particularly on the length of millable stalks. In conditions of heavy infestation, these losses can reach 40 tons per hec tare for a maximum yield of 160 tons/ha, under insecticide protection. Alth ough the yield in sugar wheight is affected, it was not possible to detect losses in sugar quality. These results are discussed in the particular cont ext of sugarcane industry of this french island.