Wheat Insects

Insects in a line on flat surface
Figure 1. Wheat stem sawfly adult (left) and the two species of Bracon parasitoids (middle and right) that are commonly found parasitizing wheat stem sawfly larvae in Nebraska. (Photo by Jeff Bradshaw)

Wheat Stem Sawfly Flights Peaked, New Reports of Range Expansion

June 12, 2024
In addition to confirming the presence of wheat stem sawfly in new Nebraska counties this year, Nebraska Extension anticipates fairly high pressure from the crop pest this growing season.

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This Week on N Field: Army Cutworm

April 19, 2024
Now is the time to scout for army cutworm in wheat and alfalfa. Learn more about identifying army cutworm damage to crops in this new N Field Observations.

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Wheat stem sawfly
Wheat stem sawfly on a piece of wheat. (Photo by Jeff Bradshaw)

‘Great Plains Sawfly Survey Project’ Seeks Grower Input

July 6, 2023
Growers are encouraged to share their insights on controlling wheat stem sawfly through the survey, which will help a UNL-led team of researchers find improved solutions for management of this pervasive wheat pest.

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Miller moths

Spring Miller Moth Invasion

May 23, 2023
While they don't cause damage to plants when feeding, migrating army cutworm moths can be an irksome household pest. Fortunately, there are simple management methods to prevent them from entering homes and other structures. 

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Wheat stem sawfly
An adult wheat stem sawfly in wheat at the High Plains Ag Lab.

Wheat Stem Sawfly Emergence — Field Notes from Early June

June 7, 2021
Recent observations indicate very high populations of wheat stem sawfly in Nebraska wheat fields, with emergence not only from field edges but also deep within fallow fields. Documentation on infestations is encouraged for successful fall sawfly management.

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sawfly larva within its pupal chamber
Wheat stem sawfly within its pupal chamber.

Wheat Stem Sawfly in 2020

September 1, 2020
This article provides a brief background on how the wheat stem sawfly arrived here, ideas on how we might manage it in Nebraska and thoughts on why we saw reduced damage in some regions while others had the most damage they have ever seen.

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Map of grassland-sawfly-parasitoid intensive survey.

Wheat Insect Update

January 9, 2019
A survey and landscape analysis is being conducted to better understand the ecology of both the wheat stem sawfly and its parasitoid, the most effective control method for the wheat stem sawfly in Nebraska.

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A field of lodged wheat with an inset photo showing wheat stubs where the wheat stem sawfly overwinters.
Figure 1. Wheat lodging due to wheat stem sawfly. Figure 2 (inset). Wheat stubs remaining in field after sawfly feeding. The sawfly will overwinter in the stub and leave the plant in the spring.

Increased Wheat Stem Sawfly Populations In 2018

August 30, 2018
One of the newest challenges to wheat growers is the wheat stem sawfly, which can girdle stems, causing lodging and yield losses. University research may offer a clue to new control practices.

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