Biological monitoring reports reproductive activity in Chile and pest decline in Argentina

In Chile, the Instituto de Fomento Pesquero (IFOP) has detected the first signs of reproductive activity in mussel populations within the Los Lagos Region. Following months of monitoring, researchers observed a significant increase in larvae, with counts exceeding 500,000 larvae per cubic meter in Pichicolo. The detection of pre-competent larvae in late August and early September indicates that new gametic emissions have occurred in natural populations, marking a key stage in the species' reproductive cycle.

In Argentina, the National Monitoring Network for Dalbulus maidis (the corn leafhopper) reported a marked decline in the pest's presence during the first half of September. This reduction is attributed to climatic impacts, which decreased population density across the country. While endemic regions in the NOA and NEA continue to show higher abundance, the NEA region saw a 46% absence rate in monitored locations. Experts advise maintaining active monitoring and controlling ‘guacho’ (volunteer) corn to prevent the pest from surviving between growing seasons.