Update & Correction Concerning Collection Of Sugarcane Aphid In Kentucky Grain Sorghum

Aug 26, 2015

By Doug Johnson, Extension Entomologist, University of Kentucky.

This note is provided for clarification of where in Kentucky Sugarcane aphid has been collected and identified. The first two collections were reported as Fulton and Graves counties. This was incorrect it should have read Fulton and Calloway Counties, KY. The Calloway Co. infestation was reported by the Graves Co. Extension agent and I confused the location.

Since that report two further infestations in KY counties were confirmed. They are Lyon and Caldwell counties. To the best of my knowledge none of these infestations were at the economic threshold for control.

Though we are approaching maturity for most of our grain sorghum fields, it might be worthwhile in planning for next year to know how far north and east this insect has penetrated. If you have opportunity to check any sorghum fields (grain, sweet or forage) and find aphids, please feel free to send me a sample.

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