Infestation of Grain Crops by the Harmful Shield Bug in Southern and Central Regions

In the southern, southeastern, and central regions of Ukraine, a mass infestation of grain crops by the harmful shield bug has been recorded. The average population of this pest is 0.2–1 specimen per square meter, while in the border areas of Dnipropetrovsk and Kherson regions, the figures reach 2 individuals per square meter. Overall, up to 12% of the plants are affected by this pest.

This is reported by AgroReview

Start of Egg Laying and Risks to the Harvest

In Odesa and Kherson regions, egg laying has already begun, currently averaging 0.2–0.5 specimens per square meter. It is expected that the hatching of larvae will occur at the end of the second to the beginning of the third decade of May, which could significantly impact the further development of the crops.

Damage caused by this phytophage during the spring period can lead to the death of the central leaf and stem, while punctures in the stem cause white ear and underdevelopment of the grain. This significantly reduces the quality and yield of the crop.

Recommendations for Crop Protection

To prevent damage to the crops and maintain grain quality, when the economic threshold of harmfulness (ETH) is met or exceeded: 2 or more specimens of the pest per square meter in strong and valuable wheat varieties, and for other crops 4-6 specimens per square meter, it is recommended to carry out protective measures.

The optimal time for protective treatments occurs when 5–15% of third-instar larvae appear on the crops.

In Vinnytsia, Kyiv, Odesa, Poltava, Chernihiv, and Cherkasy regions, the crops are additionally infested by other species of bugs: Austrian, Moorish, sharp-headed, and others.

Experts remind that climate change contributes to the increase in populations of certain pests, so it is important to conduct timely monitoring and take protective measures to preserve the harvest.