Authored by:
Niguss Hailegnaw, UF/IFAS Assistant Professor of Crop Nutrient Management at the Everglades Research and Education Center
Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist
Help UF/IFAS identify factors associated with the pasture mealybug infestation
We need to identify soil and plant characteristics associated with pasture mealybug (PMB) infestations. From observations and feedback from producers, nutrient deficiencies in the soil and plant tissue seem to increase susceptibility to mealybug.
Through this effort, we are asking producers, Extension Agents, industry collaborators to scout for pasture mealybug and take soil and tissue samples both in sugarcane fields, from areas where mealybugs are present and nearby areas with little or no infestation (control). Comparing these locations of similar management practices and crop stage will help us identify conditions that may increase the risk of infestation and guide future management recommendations to reduce susceptibility to pasture mealybug.
Sampling can be conducted by producers or consultants, or with the assistance of your local extension agent.
PMB is expanding across Florida, with 22 counties confirmed. This pest is causing significant damage to sugarcane and pastures in South Florida, with the potential to spread to many other grass species in both cultivated and natural areas.
How to help track the pasture mealybug infestation
Selecting sites: choose areas that are infested with PMB, and adjacent areas (ideally of similar management, crop, and stage) without infestation as control. If no paired area is available, submit from infested/control only.
The sampling process is very simple and requires few materials and tools:
- Paper bags are preferred, or plastic bags if paper bags are unavailable
- A soil probe or a shovel
- A bucket
- Shears or a pocketknife
To prevent spread: Start sampling the areas with no/less infestation, to reduce chances of moving insects between areas.
Use our paper or online forms to submit: Sugarcane (Print PDF) or Online Submission Form
How to collect sugarcane samples
- From each infested and control area:
- Collect several leaves (~10) from the infected area of the same field (NOTE: The leaves must be the Top Visible Dewlap (TVD) leaves)
- Combine samples from the same area into one paper bag and seal.
How to collect soil samples
- Collect approximately 3-4 core samples of soil to a depth of 4 inches.
- Mix in a bucket.
- Place about 1 cup of the mixed soil into a bag.
Label each sample:
- Infested Area + name or number.
- Control with no or few symptoms + name or number.
If you have multiple fields that are infested, please submit multiple samples.
Handle and Submit Samples Safely
Freeze your samples for one day to kill the PMB and bring them to the nearest UF/IFAS Extension office. These practices will help reduce the risk of moving pasture mealybugs into areas where they have not yet been detected.
Find sampling protocols, printable forms, and online submission forms on the UF/IFAS Pasture Mealybug Survey and Sampling Project page.
For questions, please email nhailegnaw@ufl.edu.
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