Houston, Texas, December 11, 2025
The invasive pasture mealybug has been detected in several counties across Texas, particularly in the Houston area. This pest endangers local pastures by causing ‘pasture dieback’, which leads to yellowing and the death of forage grasses. The Texas Department of Agriculture is collaborating with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and USDA to address this issue and protect local producers. Producers are urged to inspect their pastures and report findings to the TDA for effective management and prevention.
Houston, Texas – The pasture mealybug (*Helicococcus summervillei*), an invasive pest, has been found in multiple counties across Texas, including the Houston area, endangering the health of local pastures. This pest is notorious for causing “pasture dieback”, which leads to the yellowing, weakening, and eventual death of forage grasses.
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is taking immediate action in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to mitigate the effects of this pest and protect Texas producers.
First described in Australia in 1928, the pasture mealybug has a history of devastating grazing lands, affecting productivity by rapidly reproducing and feeding at soil level on a broad range of grass types. Producers are encouraged to inspect their grazing areas for any signs of the pest and to promptly report any findings to the TDA in order to ensure timely management and prevention of further spread.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offers resources for producers to identify and manage the pasture mealybug effectively. The TDA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the pasture mealybug?
The pasture mealybug (*Helicococcus summervillei*) is an invasive pest that attacks forage grasses, causing “pasture dieback,” which leads to yellowing, weakening, and ultimately death of turf.
Where has the pasture mealybug been detected?
The pasture mealybug has been confirmed in multiple Texas counties, including those in the Houston area.
What damage does the pasture mealybug cause?
This pest causes “pasture dieback,” resulting in expanding patches of yellowing, weakened, and ultimately dead turf.
How is the Texas Department of Agriculture responding?
The TDA is working closely with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to coordinate a rapid response and protect Texas producers.
What should producers do if they find the pasture mealybug?
Producers are urged to inspect their pastures for signs of the pest and report any findings to the TDA. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent further spread and mitigate potential economic losses.
Where can producers find more information?
Producers can refer to resources provided by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service for more information on identifying and managing the pasture mealybug.
Key Features of the Pasture Mealybug
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | *Helicococcus summervillei* |
| Origin | First described in Australia in 1928 |
| Impact | Causes “pasture dieback,” leading to yellowing and death of turf |
| Spread in Texas | Detected in multiple counties, including those in the Houston area |
| Management | TDA collaborating with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and USDA’s APHIS for rapid response |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
