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Soybean Insects

All Soybean Insects Content

Three bean leaf beetles. From Left: Brown beetle with black spots on a green leaf. Yellow beetle with black spots on a green leaf. Red beetle with black spots on a green leaf.

Bean Leaf Beetles Showing Up in Soybean

We have been observing an increasing number of bean leaf beetles active in soybean during the last week. See our latest observations and management recommendations.

Black beetle with a red head on soybean leaf.

Redheaded Flea Beetles Are Active in South Dakota

Redheaded flea beetles are now active in soybean. Although they haven’t caused significant defoliation yet, their activity should be monitored, as other defoliating insects are also present in soybean.

Green soybean with wilting/dying soybean within the same row.

Soybean Gall Midge Larvae Detected in South Dakota Soybean

Soybean gall midge larvae have been detected in southeastern South Dakota. Although the infestations probably won’t result in plant death in many fields in 2022, the infestations could be a source for soybean gall midge adults in 2023.

A pasture containing a mixture of grasses and alfalfa.

Grasshopper Activity Is Ramping Up

We have already observed increased grasshopper activity in many areas of the state and, depending on the 2022 season, they may become problematic in crops.

Small fly with black and white alternating bands on legs.

Soybean Gall Midge Adults Detected in South Dakota

Soybean gall midge emergence was first detected in South Dakota two weeks ago, during the week of June 13 -17, 2022. Emergence continues to be slow, with the only observations in southeast South Dakota.

Dark colored caterpillar with two distinct black lines on head capsule.

Dingy Cutworms Observed in South Dakota Crops

Dingy cutworms have been reported in South Dakota crops, and their activity is likely to continue for at least another couple of weeks.

A black and yellow striped fly with large red eyes resting on a flower. The fly is covered in yellow pollen.

It’s a Bee! It’s a Wasp! No, It’s a Hover Fly!

Many types of insects are responsible for some degree of pollination in landscapes. In this article, we will focus on the syrphid fly as both an important pollinator and a beneficial insect predator.

A metallic blue-green tiger beetle feeding on a light green caterpillar.

Tiger Beetles: Beneficial Predators and Ecosystem Health Indicators

Tiger beetles are generalist predators, meaning they prey on a wide variety of pests. Observing them in a landscape is a great sign that an ecosystem is healthy and supporting a diversity of both prey and predators.

A thin brown insect with two white spots on its side hoisting a yellow insect up with its mouthparts.

Biocontrol Agents: Brown Lacewings

With so many insect pests causing concern for both gardeners and farmers, it’s important to know which ones are on our side. In this article, we focus on the brown lacewing and the beneficial role it plays within the landscape.

A fly with a metallic body, long legs, and clear wings with smoky markings.

Flying Gems: Long-Legged Flies

Whether scouting for pests in crops or in a garden, chances are you’ve encountered a long-legged fly. These insects provide essential biocontrol of many insect pests and should be encouraged in the landscape.