Includes
Black grass bug (Labops hesperius)
Pacific grass bug (Irbisia pacifica)
Pest description and crop damage This true bug is grayish black, about 0.25 inch long, and somewhat pear-shaped. Feeding causes pale spots on the leaves of cereals and, when severe, gives leaves a general yellowish, stippled appearance.
Infestations of this insect occasionally occur in volunteer grain or grain growing under poor soil or moisture conditions. It has not been a common problem in grain-growing areas.
Management-chemical control
Foliar sprays
- pyrethrin-There are several pesticides containing various amounts of pyrethrins. Check each label for the use and amount needed. Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.
- zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang) at 0.022 to 0.05 lb ai/A. PHI 14 days for grain, forage, and hay. REI 12 hr. Retreatment interval 14 days. Do not exceed 0.25 lb ai/A (0.125 lb ai/A for MustangMaxx) per year.