Damage Symptoms:

•  Hopper Burn: A scorched appearance of rice plants due to drying and browning of leaves and stems. 
• Yellowing and Browning: Leaves and stems turn yellow initially, progressing to brown and dry. 
• Plant Death: Severe infestations can cause the death of entire plants. 
• Circular Patches: Matured plants may show circular areas of drying and lodging. 
• Sooty Mold: Nymphs and adults excrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mould growth, particularly at the base of the plant. 
• Transmission of Diseases: BPH transmits viral diseases like grassy stunt and ragged stunt, further impacting plant health. 
• Reduced Vigour and Stunting: Affected plants exhibit reduced vigour and stunting, especially in leaf sheaths and leaf blades. 

Target Crops:

• Rice (Oryza sativa): The primary target crop for BPH.