Long-horned grass jointworm

The long-horned grass jointworm (Tetramesa longicornis) is a member of the Hymenoptera order, specifically the Eurytomidae family. This insect is classified as a hidden pest, meaning its larvae develop inside the plant tissues, making detection challenging during the early stages of infestation.

This pest primarily attacks various cereal crops, posing a significant threat to wheat, rye, and barley production. Besides cultivated fields, the pest can also inhabit various perennial grasses, which serve as alternative hosts and reservoirs for the population between growing seasons.

The life cycle of the insect is strictly synchronized with the phenology of its host plants. Overwintering occurs as larvae within the stems of infested plants. In the spring, the larvae pupate, and the adults emerge to mate and lay eggs within the stems of young cereal plants, usually during the shooting and heading phases.

The damage caused by the larvae is due to them feeding inside the stem, which disrupts the vascular system of the plant. This interference prevents nutrients from reaching the head, resulting in stunted grain development, empty or "white" heads, and a significant reduction in overall yield quantity and quality.

• Implement crop rotation to break the pest's life cycle.
• Practice deep tillage to bury crop residues containing overwintering larvae.
• Remove volunteer cereals and grassy weeds from field margins.
• Use resistant or early-maturing crop varieties.
• Apply systemic insecticides during the peak adult flight period if necessary.