Population sampling for planthoppers, leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Delphacidae & Cicadellidae) and their predators in flooded rice

Abstract
Studies on the precision levels and efficiencies of available insect suction samplers (D-Vac and FARMCOP) were undertaken in the Philippines to determine the best possible sampling procedure to derive absolute population estimates of delphacids, cicadellids and their predators in flooded rice. The D–Vac suction sampler when used in conjunction with an enclosure placed over the rice hill prior to sampling was found to be the most suitable. The sampling procedure adopted is described in detail, and sampling efficiencies for the D–Vac are given for nymphs and adults of the delphacids and cicadellids and their predators. These values could be used by other workers following the sampling procedures described here on modern rice varieties grown under flooded conditions to achieve absolute population estimates.