Corn Insects

First portion of the Handy Bt Trait Table

Handy Bt Trait Table Updated for 2018 Corn January 31, 2018

The Handy Bt Trait Table, which lists the types of Bt hybrids present for all commercialized corn, has been updated for 2018. Now in its 15th year, the table has become the standard authoritative reference to Bt toxins in corn.

Researching What Could be Tomorrow's Problem Corn Ear Pest September 13, 2017

Nebraska and Brazilian entomology researchers have joined to study current and expected corn insect pests and how management strategies can be changed to address population shifts.

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. (Photo by Jim Kalisch)

Spider Mite Reports Increasing July 28, 2017

Spider mite populations are increasing in Nebraska. Fields should be scouted and the species correctly identified to provide proper management. Population levels should also be considered when treating fields with other insecticides that may knock out all natural predators, leading to population explosions of spider mites.

Damage to corn leaf by western corn rootworm — Figure 1. Damage to corn leaf caused by western corn rootworn. (Photo by Robert Wright)

Time to Scout for Western Corn Rootworm Beetles June 29, 2017

Western corn rootworm beetles began emerging in southeast and south central Nebraska this week. Before corn silks emerge, they're apt to feed by scraping the surface tissue, leaving a white parchment-like appearance.

Adult Emergence of Suspected Wheat Stem Maggot from Infested Corn Plants June 22, 2017

University researchers are studying why suspected wheat stem sawflies are being found again this year in Nebraska corn, previously thought to be a non-host. Major yield loss is not expected in corn from this pest.

They're Back ... Time to Scout Field Borders for Grasshoppers June 22, 2017

Populations of immature grasshoppers have been reported in areas bordering crop fields. If you're seeing one of the four species that harm cropland noted here, control may be warranted. Treatment is most effective when grasshoppers are small and still contained in field borders.

Using Degree-Day Models to Predict Western Bean Cutworm Flights June 15, 2017

Learn how degree-days are calculated and used to predict insect development and specifically, what they indicate for the timing of western bean cutworm development in Nebraska this year.

Scouting and Managing Stalk Borer in Corn May 24, 2017

Common stalk borer eggs have hatched throughout Nebraska and scouting should begin when 1300-1400 degree days (DD) have accumulated. Current accumulations range from 500 to 1200 DD.