Pasture Mealybug Confirmed in Georgia
A concerning invasive pasture pest continues to make its way across the Southeast, and now Georgia has confirmed its first case.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture says pasture mealybug has been confirmed for the first time in the state. USDA confirmed the detection August 5 in Decatur County in southwest Georgia, where the pest was found on weeds and grass at a turfgrass business.
Pasture mealybug primarily targets annual and perennial warm-season grasses, feeding on plant sap and injecting toxic saliva. Symptoms can show up within a week and include yellowing that turns purple or red, stunted growth, drought-like stress even after rain, poor root development, and eventually plant death.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper is urging farmers to regularly walk pastures and hayfields and watch for signs.
The pest can also hitch a ride on equipment, clothing, vehicles and other materials, making biosecurity especially important.
Anyone in Georgia who suspects pasture mealybug should contact their local County Extension Agent.
