Robert Wright - Extension Entomologist

Robert Wright

emeriti
  • Emeritus Professor University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Work Entomology Hall (ENTO) 213
Lincoln NE 68583-0816
US
Work 402-472-2128 On campus, dial 2-2128

icon-academic-capEducation

  • BA, University of California, 1975
  • MS, University of Arizona, 1977
  • Ph D, North Carolina State University, 1981

icon-chat-userCourses

  • ENTO 888, MS Degree Project, Fall 2018

Faculty Bio
Twitter: @BobWrightUNL

Twospotted spider mites on leaf
Figure 1. Twospotted spider mites. Almost microscopic in size, the spider mites may be imperceptible on a leaf, but become more visible against its silk-like webs. (Photos by Jim Kalisch)

Managing Spider Mites in Corn and Soybean

July 26, 2022
Recommendations for managing spider mites in corn and soybean, including treatment thresholds and insecticides, as well as discussions on the potential impact of beneficial insects, diseases and insecticide applications.

Read more

Spider mite damage to soybean leaves.
Spider mite damage to soybean leaves.

Identifying Spider Mite Damage and the Species Responsible

July 26, 2022
With growing reports of spider mites damaging corn and soybeans in Nebraska, it's important to check leaves closely, as many other crop issues can cause similar discoloration.

Read more

Adult differential grasshopper
Adult differential grasshopper

Watch For Grasshoppers in Crops

August 9, 2016
Growers are reporting grasshoppers in field borders moving into crop fields in parts of Nebraska. Here are the insect treatments to help you determine treatment need.

Read more

Figure 1. Sugarcane aphids. (Photo credit: Patrick Porter, Texas Cooperative Extension, Bugwood.org)
Figure 1. Sugarcane aphids. (Photo credit: Patrick Porter, Texas Cooperative Extension, Bugwood.org)

Be on the Lookout for Sugarcane Aphids on Sorghum

July 29, 2016
Nebraska grain sorghum producers are being advised to be on the lookout for sugarcane aphids. While this pest hasn't been a problem in Nebraska previously, it is in Kansas and moving north. The sugarcane aphid is light yellow to gray in color, with dark cornicles (“tail-pipes”) at the end of the body and dark tarsi (feet). Adult aphids can be winged or wingless.

Read more

Western bean cutworm feeding in corn
Western bean cutworm feeding in corn

Begin Scouting for Western Bean Cutworm Eggs in Corn

July 8, 2016
The first western bean cutworm moths were captured in University of Nebraska-Lincoln black light traps June 23 at Clay Center, June 27 at North Platte, and June 30 at Scottsbluff. Flights are currently increasing, particularly in North Platte. Scouting should be underway across much of the state.

Read more

Western corn rootworm
Figure 1. Western corn rootworm

Scout for Emerging Western Corn Rootworm Beetles

July 5, 2016
Western corn rootworm beetles began emerging in southeast and south central Nebraska during the last week in June. Beetles typically emerge somewhat later in northeastern and western Nebraska. Scouting should be underway to determine field presence and possible need for treatment.

Read more

Japanese beetle
Japanese beetle

Japanese Beetles Emerging; Identification Key to Management

July 1, 2016
Japanese beetle adults are beginning to emerge in eastern Nebraska and have been reported feeding in corn and soybean. Here's how to differentiate them from the look-alike sand chafers and treatment thresholds to determine when treatment is recommended.

Read more

Young grasshoppers in corn
Immature grasshoppers are being reported feeding in crop fields in eastern Nebraska. Treatment at early growth stages is most effective.

Scout Field Borders for Grasshoppers

June 30, 2016
Populations of immature grasshoppers are being reported in areas bordering crop fields in several parts of eastern Nebraska. If these grasshopper species are one of the four major species that are likely to infest cropland, control may be warranted. Check here are scouting guide and treatment thresholds and recommendations.

Read more