The Rise of Pasture Mealybug: A New Threat to Southern Pastures
Pasture mealybug (Heliococcus summervillei) is becoming a serious threat to pastures, hayfields, and sugarcane across the southern United States. The invasive pest has been reported in Texas, Louisiana, and 23 Florida counties.
Pasture mealybugs feed on plant sap and inject toxic saliva into grasses. Early symptoms include: yellow, red, purple leaves, or expanding patches of dead grass. Because these symptoms can resemble nutrient deficiencies or drought stress, infestations may be overlooked.
Producers have observed that certain pastures experience less infestation and damage than neighboring fields. Soil fertility, plant nutrition, forage species, grazing intensity, and canopy density may all influence susceptibility.
UF/IFAS researchers are comparing soil and plant-tissue samples from infested and less-affected areas to identify the conditions associated with pasture mealybug damage.
Producers should inspect yellowing or poorly growing areas, especially the lower leaves, plant bases, thatch, and soil surface. Suspected infestations should be reported to the local Extension office.
Management recommendations are still being developed. Early detection and producer participation in sampling efforts will be essential for understanding and controlling this emerging pest.
Learn more from UF/IFAS, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, and the LSU AgCenter.
