Improved management of the bermudagrass stem maggot

The bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura Villeneuve) continues to damage bermudagrass [Cynodon dactlyon (L.) Pers.] pastures and hayfields throughout the southeastern United States each season. This management guide describes how to identify the damage to the forage and the bermudagrass stem maggot as a larva, pupa, and fly. Strategically timed pyrethroid applications reduce adult BSM populations and yield loss, but ongoing efforts are focused on developing integrated pest management plans that include cultural, physical, and biological suppression efforts. Research is ongoing to improve the effectiveness of insecticide applications and screen new modes of action to prevent resistance to the pyrethroids. However, long-term solutions will require development and release of tolerant bermudagrass cultivars to reduce the reliance on pesticides. Fine-stem bermudagrass lines are more susceptible to bermudagrass stem maggot damage than lines with thicker stem diameters. While 'Tifton 85' is still considered the standard to which we compare all other bermudagrass lines for BSM tolerance, there is still room for improvement. Genotypes currently under evaluation maintain the positive attributes of Tifton 85 while overcoming these challenges. The bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM) severely damages bermudagrass pastures and hayfields throughout the southeastern United States every summer. This management guide can help forage managers and consultants identify BSM damage and the pest. Pyrethroid insecticides can reduce adult BSM populations and yield loss when applied correctly. More research is needed to develop integrated pest management plans that include multiple suppression efforts. Fine stem lines are more susceptible to BSM damage than lines with thicker stem. Long-term solutions require new BSM-tolerant lines to reduce the demand that producers currently place on pesticides.