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Southern corn rootworm larvae. Photo by John Obermeyer, Purdue University.
Scientific Name
Diabrotica undecimpunctata
Biology
Southern corn rootworm adult AKA spotted cucumber beetle. Photo by John Obermeyer, Purdue University.
Southern corn rootworms are the larvae of the spotted cucumber beetle. These larvae burrow into the germinating seeds, roots and crowns of sorghum. This feed can lead to reduced stands, lower vigor and cause “dead heart” to young plants.
Positive Identification
Southern corn rootworms are a creamy white color with wrinkled skin and a brown head.
Regional Information
Areas of potentially economically damaging southern corn rootworm infestations in Texas.
Scouting Tips
Southern corn root worms will be found feeding in roots of slow growing stands. By removing the plant detection can be accomplished.
Although we tried to include the most significant pests related to sorghum our tool cannot help you identify every insect found on sorghum. This tool is built to inform you of the most common and significant pests of sorghum in Texas. If the insect you are dealing with does not match the description above then talk to your extension agent or visit this page to look at all the different important potential pest associated with each part and growth stage of sorghum. For management information of a specific pest talk to your local extension office.