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Cultivar resistance is a key management strategy for the sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (F.), the primary pest in Louisiana sugarcane, but mechanisms of resistance are not well understood.

This research evaluated the potential mechanisms of cultivar resistance to D. saccharalis among commercially produced sugarcane cultivars and experimental lines through three field screenings, two greenhouse experiments, and one diet incorporation assay.

Highlights • Chlorantraniliprole and novaluron are systemic in sugarcane. • Chlorantraniliprole provides up to eight weeks of protection from Diatraea saccharalis injury in sugarcane. • Efficacy of insecticide applications in sugarcane is reduced at low water volumes.