Laboratory and Field Evaluation of Sampling Techniques for the Nymphal Stages of the Potato Leafhopper on Alfalfa12

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Abstract
A sampling method that uses dichlorvos squares (1.2 cm2) in paper ice cream cartons (0.95 liter) was developed to evaluate nymphal populations of Empoasca fabae (Harris) on alfalfa. Samples collected in the field and placed in the ice cream carton were quickly handled in the laboratory, and nymphs collected in the lid of the carton were easily sorted and counted under a stereomicroscope. In laboratory tests, this method was shown to be greater than 90% efficient in extracting nymphs from alfalfa. The sample unit was a 3-stem bouquet per carton with a 24-h exposure period. In field trials, the dichlorvos-carton method was more effective in determining nymphal abundance than a sweep net, a D-Vac® suction collector, a drop trap method, a shake pan method, or direct observation.
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