The kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria is a serious invasive pest of soybean causing a reduction to yield when heavily infested (Figure 1). In addition to soybean, the kudzu bug also uses the plant kudzu, an invasive weed, as a host. The most recent monitoring efforts indicated that the kudzu bug was not yet reported in Ohio; however, monitoring efforts remain important as the pest expands its host region (Figure 2). Using this information, we worked with Extension Educators in counties where kudzu has previously been reported to monitor for the kudzu bug in Ohio (Figure 2). The monitoring protocol was designed by Virginia Tech and used a PVC pipe and sticky card. Traps were deployed between May through the beginning of June and were monitored weekly until the end of June.
Kudzu bug monitoring in Ohio is now complete with zero kudzu bugs found in Ohio (Figure 3). Overall, 6 PVC traps were monitored in five counties including, Athens, Butler, Madison, Ross and Washington. Although the kudzu bug has yet to be found in Ohio; it is important to continue monitoring efforts to make the best management decisions for our growers. If you suspect kudzu bug in your county please contact your local extension office.
