(Elasmopalpus lignosellus)
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The lesser cornstalk borer is up to 3/4 inch long and has a blue-green body with distinct purple or brown bands. This insect is often found in a sand-covered, silken tube attached to the plant at the feeding site. The larva twitches vigorously when disturbed.
Seedling damage is most prevalent on drought-stressed sandy soils. Double-cropped soybeans planted in disked grain fields are highly susceptible; minimum tillage reduces damage. Larvae kill seedlings by girdling and tunneling into the plants at the soil line. Girdled stems may form callus tissue and later snap off at the soil line. This pest is found throughout the southern United States. |
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