Soybean stem borer
scouted Aug. 25, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Dectes texanus
- Background
- A soybean field, variety Asgrow 5.6 MG, in Washington County was being scouted, and it was observed that 50% of the field was affected by browning and yellowing between the veins. There is suspicion of SDS or stem rot. These symptoms were widespread. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- Soybean stem borers were identified in the sample. Soybean stem borers have one generation a year and are active from May through early October. It usually causes indirect yield loss due to lodging or an interaction with other negative environmental conditions, such as drought. These insects are usually more abundant in field edges near weeds or fields adjacent to last year's soybeans. There is no economic threshold for it, but good cultural practices and timely harvest can limit its impacts.
- Resources