September 10, 2024

 

Missouri, US corn crop faces threat from leafhopper pest

Researchers in Missouri, US, are working to save one of the state's largest crops, but the solution may not arrive in time to assist this year's harvest as an out-of-state leafhopper pest invades Missouri's corn fields, KFVS 12 reported.

 

Researchers, including Ivair Valmorbida, are concerned about the potential damage to crop yields due to a disease affecting the corn, one not typically found in Missouri.

 

The disease, known as corn stunt, is caused by tiny pests called leafhoppers. These insects feed on the moisture in corn plants, leaving behind dry, withered leaves and shrivelled corn kernels. Leafhoppers are not commonly found this far north, making the outbreak unusual.

 

Corn is a major industry in Missouri, spanning over 3 million acres across the state, with at least 90 counties farming the crop. Despite the current challenges, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provided an optimistic update on the state's corn yield.

 

Brad Summa, with USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), noted that despite the disease threat, Missouri could see one of its largest corn harvests on record.

 

"We're looking at 181 bushels an acre, which would be the second highest yield on record," Summa stated. "The acreage is down a little bit from last year, but the overall production is still going to be one of the best that we've seen in Missouri."

 

Summa attributed the promising yield to favourable weather conditions. A dry April enabled early planting, and a mild summer with sufficient rainfall supported growth.

 

Meanwhile, Valmorbida and his colleagues at the University of Missouri Extension are investigating how leafhoppers are entering the state, whether they can survive the winter, and how to treat the crops for their presence.

 

The research team is also studying how these pests transmit the corn stunt disease.

 

"We need to understand that relationship and then move into what are the control strategies that can be used against this insect pest," Valmorbida said.

 

Unfortunately, it is too late in the season for farmers to use pesticides to combat the leafhoppers.

 

"Farmers need to be aware that they need to go out and scout their field early for the presence of the sector and the symptoms so measures can be taken before significant losses occur," Valmorbida advised.

 

The University of Missouri is urging farmers who notice signs of corn stunt to send samples to the university's extension researchers or request a field visit to assess the situation.

 

-      KFVS 12