Handbook on arthropod pests and diseases of cassava released

The 2016 maiden issue of the handbook with ISBN: 978-971-592-067-4 published by the Visayas State University (VSU), the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) with funding support from the DA-Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division (AFID) has been released in May 2016 by the National Library of the Philippines Cataloguing-in-Publication Entry.

According to Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin, VSU President, the handbook is a useful reference material for researchers, extension workers, plantation operators and other stakeholders who are involved in cassava production. This information material can also be used by students and agriculture professionals.

The author who is also the PhilRootcrops Director said that there is really a need to manage the arthropod pests and diseases effectively, and correct identification is needed as basis in the development of appropriate control strategies.

Dr. Vasquez further said that the handbook also provides information available not only for major but also for minor cassava arthropod pests and diseases ubiquitously present in the country as well as their management. This will be a useful tool in decision-making for strict quarantine implementation.