02/02/2026
UPDATE: Commissioner Sid Miller Continues to Urge Vigilance Against Pasture Mealybug
Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture continue to urge ranchers, hay producers, and landowners to remain vigilant as the invasive pasture mealybug (Helicococcus summervillei) spreads across Texas pastures. Novel to North America, this destructive pest is already damaging grasses in multiple counties.
The LSU AgCenter has also confirmed ongoing infestations in Louisiana sugarcane fields, highlighting that at least two U.S. states are now contending with this emerging threat.
Pasture mealybugs feed at the soil level, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and dieback in bermudagrass, bahiagrass, Johnsongrass, St. Augustine, bluestem species, and more.
“This is a completely new pest to our continent, and Texas is once again on the front lines," Commissioner Miller said. "We need every producer’s eyes on the ground. If you see something off, report it. TDA is working diligently with our federal and state partners to determine how to best combat this novel threat and stop it in its tracks.”
Counties with confirmed infestations include:
Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy, Refugio, Calhoun, Victoria, Goliad, DeWitt, Lavaca, Fayette, Jackson, Matagorda, Brazoria, Galveston, Wharton, Colorado, Austin, Washington, Burleson, Brazos, and Robertson.
Producers should look for:
• Yellow, purple, or red foliage
• Poor root growth or dieback from leaf tips
• Fuzzy white insects on blades, stems, soil surfaces, or under debris/cow patties
Take action:
• Scout pastures regularly
• Report suspicious infestations to 1‑800‑TELL‑TDA
Note: No pesticide has been confirmed effective yet. Ongoing joint discussion and research collaboration between federal and state agencies aim to discover solutions.
Early detection is critical. The TDA continues to urge producers to monitor their pastures closely to protect Texas grazing lands.
