Improved management of the bermudagrass stem maggot

Abstract

The bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura Villeneuve) continues to damage bermudagrass [Cynodon dactlyon (L.) Pers.] pastures and hayfields throughout the southeastern United States each season. This management guide describes how to identify the damage to the forage and the bermudagrass stem maggot as a larva, pupa, and fly. Strategically timed pyrethroid applications reduce adult BSM populations and yield loss, but ongoing efforts are focused on developing integrated pest management plans that include cultural, physical, and biological suppression efforts. Research is ongoing to improve the effectiveness of insecticide applications and screen new modes of action to prevent resistance to the pyrethroids. However, long‐term solutions will require development and release of tolerant bermudagrass cultivars to reduce the reliance on pesticides. Fine‐stem bermudagrass lines are more susceptible to bermudagrass stem maggot damage than lines with thicker stem diameters. While ‘Tifton 85’ is still considered the standard to which we compare all other bermudagrass lines for BSM tolerance, there is still room for improvement. Genotypes currently under evaluation maintain the positive attributes of Tifton 85 while overcoming these challenges.

Challenges in bermudagrass production in the southeastern USA

“…Spraying before every harvest is not an economical management strategy as the BSM only routinely reduces forage accumulation after mid-summer (Baxter et al, 2019). More detailed explanations of BSM management strategies are detailed in Baxter et al (2024). Research is ongoing…”

“…However, it is recognized that sound agronomic management that can improve BSM tolerance for a bermudagrass stand would also improve spring green-up. These factors include timely harvesting, leaving sufficient stubble height, balanced fertilization, near-neutral soil pH, and control of other insects and weeds (Baxter et al, 2020(Baxter et al, , 2024. Poor agronomic management contributes to delayed green-up of the bermudagrass, which will make a particular stand more susceptible to the BSM, further exacerbating stand decline despite tolerance of the cultivar to BSM.…”