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Soybean Insects

All Soybean Insects Content

Small, green teardrop shaped insects on a green, soybean stem with pink flower.

Soybean Aphids Spotted in South Dakota

Soybean aphid populations have been observed in South Dakota. Although these populations are still very small, it is a good reminder that soybean aphid scouting should occur throughout the growing season to prevent population outbreaks and yield loss.

Two mites. From left: Green leaf with two yellow spider mites with dark spots. Green leaf with yellow spider mite.

Spider Mites Reported in South Dakota Crops

With drought conditions continuing in South Dakota, it isn’t surprising that two-spotted spider mite infestations are being reported throughout the state. With hot temperatures in the forecast and limited chances for precipitation, we can expect spider mite populations to thrive in infested fields.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

Grasshoppers Are Causing Concerns in South Dakota Crops

In 2020, grasshopper populations were an issue in parts of central and western South Dakota. The populations this year are moving into crops earlier and appear to be as bad as the ones observed last year.

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

Soybean Gall Midge Larvae in South Dakota Soybean

Soybean gall midge larvae were observed in South Dakota soybean this week. Although insecticide applications haven’t been very effective at this stage, it is still important to scout fields and determine the location and extent of soybean gall midge infestations.

A brown soybean stem with three bright orange larva on it.

Soybean Gall Midge Larvae Observed in South Dakota

Soybean gall midge emergence continues to be slow in South Dakota. In the past week, two additional adults have been captured in South Dakota.

White and red caterpillar feeding within silken hideout on green soybean leaf.

Thistle Caterpillars Observed on Canada Thistle

Although thistle caterpillars are normally first observed in July or August, it is possible for them to appear earlier if weather conditions are favorable. While these caterpillars are generally not present in high numbers, they can cause severe defoliation.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

Will Grasshoppers Be an Issue in 2021?

With much of South Dakota experiencing dry conditions this year, grasshoppers are one of the insect pests that will need to be monitored. Large grasshopper populations may cause economic loss in cash crops and reduce forage in range and pasture lands.

Soybean plants cut by cutworm caterpillars.

Dingy Cutworms Observed in South Dakota Soybean

Dingy cutworms have been reported in South Dakota soybean. Although they are not normally a major pest of soybean, dingy cutworms will often defoliate soybean leaves and can cause significant stand reductions by cutting plants.

Yellow and black beetle on green soybean leaf.

Overwintering Population of Bean Leaf Beetles Are Active In Soybean

While scouting soybeans this week, extensive defoliation caused by bean leaf beetles was observed. Although insecticide seed treatments will reduce the threat of bean leaf beetle feeding during this time of the season, soybean fields should still be scouted.

Seecorn maggot larva feeding on a seed in a field.

Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: June 3, 2021

We are currently between the second and third generation peak emergences in South Dakota. Seedcorn maggot management must be done before planting, or the populations can be avoided by not planting during times of peak emergence.