Why It Matters?

Climate change is reshaping pest dynamics in agriculture, threatening food security and smallholder livelihoods. In South Africa’s Limpopo Province, farmers growing maize and sorghum are particularly vulnerable to stem borers such as the maize stalk borer (Busseola fusca), pink stem borer (Sesamia calamistis), and spotted stem borer (Chilo partellus). These pests can cause yield losses of up to 100%. This study is crucial in understanding pest distribution patterns and their impact, enabling early warning systems, improved monitoring tools, and more resilient farming practices to reduce crop losses and improve food security.

Research Approach?

This study uses a combination of field sampling and pheromone trap monitoring across 18 farms in Limpopo’s key maize- and sorghum-producing districts. Damage assessments are conducted on randomly selected plants to measure leaf and stem damage caused by stem borer larvae. Collected larvae are morphologically identified in collaboration with the ARC-Biosystematics Division and Stellenbosch University. Moth populations are monitored from February to May using pheromone traps for each species. Environmental factors such as temperature and rainfall are also recorded to assess their influence on pest dynamics.

Research Impact to Farmers

Findings from this study provide farmers with accurate, location-specific information about pest prevalence, enabling early detection and targeted responses. By identifying high-risk areas and species-specific behavior, the research supports better pest management planning and the development of affordable, effective interventions. Farmers benefit from reduced crop losses, improved yields, and access to training and information sessions such as farmer days. This empowers smallholders to make informed decisions and strengthens overall food system resilience in the region.

Resources

Reports:

Annual Project Reports (2024, 2025) – available upon request

Articles:

• Master’s thesis in progress by Ms. Mmapete Khwinana (TUT)

Collaborators & Research Leads

Principal Investigators:

• Dr Shandukani Netshifhefhe – Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
• Prof Maboko Mphosi – University of Limpopo (UL)

Collaborative Institutions:

• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
• University of Limpopo (UL)
• Grain SA
• ARC–Plant Health and Protection
• ARC–Biosystematics Division
• Stellenbosch University
• Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD)

Students and Fellows:

• Mmapete Ramadimetja Khwinana – MSc Student, TUT
• Internal damage caused by stem borer inside a maize stalk.
• damage observed on the maize stem caused by stem borers.