Greenbug
Scientific Name
Schizaphis graminum
Hosts
The greenbug is probably the single most important insect pest of winter wheat in Oklahoma. Greenbugs are also carriers of the virus that causes barley yellow dwarf disease.
Symptoms
Wheat leaves react to a substance in greenbug saliva, causing young leaves to turn yellow and older leaves to develop orange-red spots. Greenbugs often occur in concentrated patches within a field, damaging small circular patches that radiate from dead spots. When abundant, greenbugs can stunt plants and eventually kill them. If seedlings are infested in the fall, they seem to be more susceptible to winter kill.
Description
Lime-green colored with a darker green stripe on its back. Greenbugs measure about 1/16 inch long at maturity.
Control
Please contact your local county extension office for current information.