The pasture mealybug has been all over social media over the last few months. Dr. Lisa Baxter, UGA Forage Agronomist, has information about this pest and is available below.
The pasture mealybug (Heliococcus summervillei) was first officially reported in Texas in 2025. They primarily impact annual and perennial warm season grass species. The damage consists of yellowing, stunted growth, and early senescence. Texas A&M Extension has the most comprehensive bulletin on the pasture mealybug and how it has impacted forage production in Texas.
Reporting in Georgia
At the time of writing this update, this pest has not yet been officially reported in Georgia though there is at least one suspected case. We encourage everyone to walk their pastures and hayfields often to check for the pest. If you suspect you have the pasture mealybug, please work with your local County Extension Agent for confirmation so they can report the pest.
Suppression Options
At the time of writing this update, there are no labelled and reliable insecticides for complete control of the pasture mealybug. Efforts are being made by chemical companies to have emergency labelling approved for some active ingredients, but this takes time and the agronomic and economic benefits have not yet been determined.
Practicing good farm biosecurity is critical to stopping this pest at the gate. This is the best and most reliable option we have right now. These pests can stick everywhere, so we must think strategically. Biosecurity practices may include:
- Cleaning farm and hay equipment in between each field or farm (depending on scale of operation).
- Avoid driving through pastures.
- Change pants and shoes in between fields or farms (depending on scale of operation).
- Keep grazing records and avoid impacted pastures.
- Limit wildlife movement on farm.
- Limit vehicle traffic in and off the farm.
