Texas agriculture officials have issued an emergency alert this week due to the rapid spread of a newly identified invasive pest affecting over 20 counties. It poses a threat to grazing lands, hay production, and livestock operations statewide.
The pest, helicoccus summer belay, commonly known as the grass mealybug, had not previously been documented in North America. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller reported visible damage in several regions caused by this pest.
“This pest is entirely new to our continent, and Texas is once again on alert,” Miller stated. He expressed concern that, if allowed to spread as it has in eastern Australia, the mealybugs could severely impact Texas agriculture by diminishing productivity and livestock output.
The Texas Department of Agriculture is teaming up with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to gauge the extent of the infestation and to formulate an emergency response plan.
Meanwhile, avian influenza cases are increasing, particularly at commercial poultry farms in Georgia.
The pasture mealybug was first identified in Australia in 1928 and has been known to cause significant pasture loss due to “grass dieback.” The insect feeds on grasses, leading to their weakening and eventual death, which is detrimental for grazing and hay production.
Interestingly, while this pest is considered new, some researchers believe it may have been present in North America prior to 2022.
Currently, experts have identified infected areas in 20 counties, which include Brazoria, Galveston, Wharton, and several others.
Colorado is exploring options for using cattle grazing in certain areas to help prevent wildfires.
According to AgriLife entomologists, Victoria County is experiencing the most significant pasture losses. Some of the most vulnerable grasses include bermudagrass and bahiagrass, among others.
Detecting damage early can be quite tricky since the insects tend to feed close to the ground. Early signs might include yellowing of grass, stunted growth, and patchy areas of thinning grass. The insects themselves appear as tiny white fuzzy lumps on the plants.
In cattle country, some ranchers are expressing cautious hope that governmental focus on agriculture will help. Unfortunately, there are currently no pesticides approved for controlling this pest in the United States.
Anyone who notices symptoms that could be related to the mealybug is urged to contact the Texas Department of Agriculture at 1-800-TELL-TDA. Ongoing reports are vital for mapping these infestations to mitigate economic impacts.
As Miller noted, “Every producer needs to keep an eye on the field.” The TDA, AgriLife Extension, and USDA APHIS are collaborating on further research into this pest and are working to develop strategies that will protect Texas’ livestock and hay industries.
