Objective: To compare the efficiency of a 30305 cm iron sampling frame (Frame30) with a smaller
15155 cm one (Frame15), as sampling method for spittlebug eggs [(Aenolamia albofasciata (Lallemand)] that
reduces the amount of soil removed, optimizes time used, and reduces the sampling effort.
Design/methodology/approach: Mean, variance, coefficient of variation, sampling effort, spatial
arrangement, and sample size were determined with both sampling frames. Forty systematic soil samples were
obtained using each frame in two plots planted with the variety MEX 69-290, and two others with MEX
91-662. Each soil sample was mixed and homogenized to obtain a subsample of 250 g, from which eggs were
extracted by decantation in saline solution.
Results: Both frames estimated different numbers of eggs in the four plots (x s) (Frame15: 2.711.71;
3.491.81; 2.742.08; 4.442.22; Frame30: 4.423.58; 6.653.92; 4.403.45; 7.844.54). Significant
differences were found between sampling frames (P0.0001) and between plots (P0.0001), but not in the
plot-sampling frame interaction (P0.1509). The optimal sample size (accuracy 0.1) was smaller with Frame15
(40, 27, 57 and 25), compared to Frame30 (65, 34, 61 and 34). Both frames estimated a conglomerated spatial
arrangement of eggs using three methods.
Limitations on study/implications: This study suggests changing the sampling frame used in Veracruz,
Mexico, for a smaller, more efficient one.
Findings/conclusions: Frame15 reduced by 75% the soil removed, provided more accurate population
estimates, and simplified field and laboratory management, compared with Frame30.