Bunchy top appearance in grown-up sugarcane due to the formation of side shoots is caused by

✅ Explanation: The top shoot borer attacks the growing point of the sugarcane plant, leading to the death of the central shoot. This damage stimulates the growth of side shoots from the axillary buds, resulting in a "bunchy top" appearance.

📌 Other Options Explanations:
-Early shoot borer (Chilo infuscatellus): This pest primarily attacks young sugarcane shoots, causing dead hearts and stunted growth.
-Woolly aphid (Ceratovacuna lanigera): These aphids infest the leaves and stems, causing leaf curling and yellowing.
-Pyrilla (Pyrilla perpusilla): Pyrilla is a sap-sucking insect that weakens the plant.