The world loses up to 40% of its crop production due to pests and diseases every year. In particular, invasive insects cost the global economy at least $70 billion.

These figures are staggering, so knowing these pests is necessary. It applies whether you’re a farmer or a curious individual.

Do you want a good starting point for your learning? Read on and discover common types of pests plaguing the agriculture industry:

Locusts

These insects are notorious in the farming industry. After all, they date back to as early as 2000 B.C. They destroyed some of humanity’s first crops.

Today, locusts continue to threaten any plant. The right conditions can cause them to gather into a huge swarm and devour everything in sight. They can eat their weight each day, resulting in total devastation.

Japanese Beetles

Introduced to New Jersey in 1916, Japanese beetles became a threat for eastern U.S. farmers. These insects can eat around 300 plant species, often feeding in large groups.

Japanese beetles often begin their food frenzy in June. They emerge from the ground and feed for around 4 to 6 weeks. In that period, these pests can significantly damage the farming industry.

True Bugs

The term “true bug” applies to the 50,000 to 80,000 insect species in the United States. However, the most common ones are whiteflies and aphids. They tap into plants and eat their sap, weakening the crop.

The weakness could cause the plant’s death when bugs attack in huge numbers. Worse, they eat the stalks and flowers as well. 

Aside from physical damage, true bugs also spread harmful viruses to plants. If you want to get rid of these pests, consider visiting marronebio.com to learn about their microbial-based insecticides.

Corn Rootworm

Corn rootworms are problematic due to their pesticide resistance. These beetle-looking pests destroy corn silk and leaves during June and July. During this period, they also lay eggs throughout the corn.

For this reason, growing the crop on the same land every year worsens the problem. A farming company should eradicate the corn rootworm before planting new crops.

Colorado Potato Beetle

Aside from potatoes, the Colorado potato beetle can eat eggplants and tomatoes. It’s a menace due to its incredible resilience against pesticides, resisting over 50 variants in the last half-century. 

Both larvae and adult Colorado potato beetles enjoy eating plant foliage. They can also feed on stalks or fruits and vegetables. When left unattended, these pests can ruin entire farms rapidly.

Stink Bugs

These insects are an extensive threat to crops. They eat plant stems and leaves alongside fruit and vegetable juices. Some examples include:

  • Apples
  • Berries
  • Beans
  • Peaches
  • Peppers

Stink bugs also eat cotton, severely cutting farm yields. Worse, the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is more resilient against insecticides.

Learn More Types of Pests Now

These are only some common types of pests around. If you want to protect your farming business, consider learning other species. 

However, delegating the task to a professional pest control company is a better choice. Look for reputable businesses online or ask for trustworthy recommendations.

Did you find this guide helpful? If so, consider exploring our other articles for more agricultural tips and tricks.