By Jamie Martin
Southern green stink bugs are destructive agricultural pests that attack a wide range of crops, including soybeans. Their feeding behavior can significantly affect crop quality and yield, making them a concern for soybean producers.
These insects damage plants by piercing plant tissues and sucking out nutrients. Both nymphs and adults feed on leaves, stems, flowers, pods, and seeds. Feeding injuries are often most serious during pod and seed development, when crop value is directly affected.
Soybean seeds damaged by southern green stink bugs can become undersized, shriveled, and less marketable. The insects also introduce digestive enzymes into plant tissues while feeding, increasing plant stress, and creating opportunities for disease development.
Identifying the pest is an important first step in management. Young nymphs are dark colored and gradually become green as they mature. Distinct white or pink markings may appear along the abdomen. Adult insects are bright green and recognizable by the red bands found on their antennae.
Monitoring fields regularly helps growers detect infestations before serious losses occur. Sweep nets and drop cloth sampling methods are widely used to estimate population levels. Sampling should be conducted in several areas of a field to improve accuracy.
Economic thresholds vary by location and crop stage, so growers should follow recommendations from local extension specialists. Pest levels that justify treatment may differ between grain and seed production fields.
When insecticide applications are necessary, selecting the right product and timing is essential. Growers should also consider harvest timing and product restrictions before making applications.
For more information about the Southern green stink bug, please visit the Farms.com Field Guide Pest pages.
Photo Credit: pexels-wanderingpickle
Categories: National