Leaf-footed Plant Bug

Bugs. Bugs, Bugs—February 2009

Although we have had some crazy weather, we are still seeing some insects flying around and creating a nuisance of themselves. Even honeybee swarms are starting with the hot, sunny weather we had last week, and those in trees are coming out and getting ready for spring, which seems just around the corner.

1. Leaf-footed plant bugs—The large one, Acanthocephala femorata, has been observed flying about and entering homes creating a nuisance and smelling up the place when disturbed. Almost all species are plant feeders and like to feed on ripening fruit and vegetables, like tomatoes, citrus, berries and such. Calls have come in from Shreveport to New Orleans, and several of these bugs have been noted flying around potential hosts. They do not bite but will give off a foul small when grabbed or mashed.
2. Crane flies—These large flies are often thought to be giant mosquitoes. This would be serious if that was the case but they are only flies that do not bite but can be an aggravation both inside and out. They have very long legs and an elongated body and are attracted to light. When populations are dense, several will enter the home each time the door is opened. They like to sit on lampshades and because of their long legs, the body will bounce, creating an unusual tapping noise that bothers many homeowners. They are easy to manage, and using a yellow light near doorways will reduce the number entering homes. They will fly around and settle on people sitting or walking outdoors as well. The larvae live in the yard in the thatch created by unraked clippings. The larvae are organic feeders, and thatch is an ideal host. After heav

   Cranefly Landa

   y rains where populations are dense, the larvae can be found on the walks and driveways. The pupa, often called leather jackets, can be observed sticking through the grass as the adults emerge, or the empty skins can be found on walks and driveways.
3. Aphids—Those of us who grow daylilies should begin checking the fans for the presence of aphids. Populations can become very heavy and stunt and discolor plants and reduce blooms if they’re not controlled. The application of a granular systemic or spray insecticide will effectively manage these populations because most beneficial insects are not yet out or about.
4. Honeybees—Swarms have already started, and it looks to be a very big year for the honeybee population to expand. Be sure to note the listing of beekeepers on the AgCenter Web site by area of the state; they can assist with these problems. If someone wants to be listed on the site, just send the needed information (name, address, phone number, and what you will do – like collect swarms or remove bees from structures). Click on the site under environment and natural resources and then scroll down to bees and wasp.

5. Mexican Rice Borer

   Mexican rice borer—This seems an unusual listing for the landscape, but this new invasive pest found in Calcasieu Parish can survive on grass hosts, such as vasey grass, sprangletop, Johnson grass and barnyard grass and possibly several of our ornamental grasses. Should anyone note injury or damage to an ornamental grass, be sure to check it for borers in the stems. If you find any, bring the specimen to your county agent or to me (Dr. Pollet or call 225-281-0585). This invasive insect can be a serious pest of rice, sugarcane and several small grains as well as the ornamental grasses. Early detection will assist in quick and proper management.

Until next month,

Dale