Sunflower Insects

The longhorned borer Dectes texanus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)

Adult Dectes stem borer.

Larva of Dectes stem borer. Note tapering of terminal abdominal segments.

The Dectes stem borer can be a cause of serious lodging in commercial sunflower production, especially in dryland oilseed fields.

Problems are exacerbated by high density plantings and dry summer weather that accelerates stalk desiccation and larval girdling behavior.

Detailed information in MF2581 Kansas Crop Pests: Dectes Stem Borer

Please refer to the most recent Sunflower Insect Management Guide for specific control recommendations.

Last updated 7/11/2017 by J.P. Michaud