Tadpole shrimps

Affected crops. The primary crop impacted by tadpole shrimps is rice. They are particularly dangerous during the initial flooding phase of paddy fields, as they target the seeds, germinating embryos, and young seedlings of rice plants before they are fully established in the substrate.

Biology and life cycle. These organisms possess a highly adapted life cycle. Their eggs can remain dormant in dry soil for many years, resisting extreme environmental conditions. When the fields are flooded, the eggs hatch rapidly, and the larvae begin growing and feeding almost immediately, reaching maturity in a very short period.

Nature of damage and pest status. Tadpole shrimps cause damage by churning the bottom soil while foraging. This activity uproots germinating rice seeds and delicate seedlings. Furthermore, their movement increases water turbidity, which blocks sunlight necessary for the photosynthesis of young rice plants, leading to significant yield losses if not managed.

Control measures. Management of tadpole shrimps involves a combination of water management and chemical intervention. The most effective cultural practice is the temporary drainage of paddy fields, which kills the larvae. If infestations are severe, specialized chemical treatments are required to reduce the population density without negatively affecting the crop.

• Monitoring fields during initial flooding.
• Strategic drainage to disrupt larval cycles.
• Application of authorized aquatic pesticides.
• Proper soil preparation before flooding.