What pest has significantly affected sorghum production in Oklahoma and surrounding states during the late 2010s into the 2020s?

The sugarcane aphid has emerged as a significant pest affecting sorghum production in Oklahoma and neighboring states during the late 2010s into the 2020s. This pest is particularly notorious for its capacity to reproduce rapidly and cause substantial damage to sorghum crops, leading to decreased yields. The sugarcane aphid feeds on the sap of the sorghum plants, weakening them and potentially leading to plant stress and loss of vigor.

In addition to direct feeding damage, the sugarcane aphid is known to produce large quantities of honeydew, which can promote the growth of sooty mold. This mold can further hinder photosynthesis in the affected plants, compounding the negative effects on crop health. Integrated pest management strategies are often required to manage this pest effectively, as its populations can escalate quickly in favorable conditions.

Other pests like the peach aphid, two-spotted spider mite, and red-banded stinkbug also pose threats to various crops but have not shown the same level of impact on sorghum specifically during this timeframe as the sugarcane aphid has. This distinction highlights the importance of identifying and targeting key pests in agricultural practices to protect vital crop production.