The invasion of the Asian Kudzu bug (also known as the bean plataspid or Megacopta cribraria) from the southern states to the Mid-Atlantic region is proceeding. First reported in Georgia in the fall of 2009, The Kudzu bug is spreading rapidly and has been confirmed in six counties in Maryland. The bug feeds on vascular tissue of stems and leaves, resulting in reduced growth, increased plant stress and yield loss. Research to manage this new insect threat to soybean production is underway in several states.
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#insects and pests