Insect damage to rice was simulated by artificially removing various portions of the photosynthetic surfaces during the seedling and tillering stage of growth. Twenty-five and 50% leaf removal in the seedling stage reduced yields 3 and 8%. respectively. Twenty-five and 50% removal in the tillering stage reduced yields 5 and 12%. respectively. Yield loss from leaf removal was greater on rice planted in April than on rice planted in May.