Insects, Pests & Diseases

We have a wide range of information, publications and specialists that cover an array of questions related to insects, pests and diseases. Topics run the gamut from beneficial and pest insect identification to integrated pest management regimens and protection from vector-borne diseases.

Related Departments: Entomology, Plant Pathology and Microbiology

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Pest and Disease Lab Diagnostic Services

Texas Apiary Inspection Service assists beekeepers by checking nosema and varroa levels in order to help diagnose problems found in hives.
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Insects, Pests & Diseases

Publications

Publication

Phomopsis affects grapes in vineyards across Texas—especially in wet, humid regions. This 2-page factsheet gives you expert-backed strategies to identify, manage, and prevent it. Download your free copy now.

Publication

Finding bugs in your pantry can be stressful. This easy-to-follow factsheet shows you how to identify red flour beetles, get rid of them safely, and keep your dry goods protected for good. Download your free copy today!

Publication

A new aphid pest has infested grain sorghum in Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Mexico.

Programs

We offer numerous free and affordable programs on agriculture and natural resources, family and community health, economic health and youth development. We also offer many volunteer opportunities. Browse the list below.
Program

The Plant Pathology (PLPM) Extension program provides services across Texas through subject-matter specialists in areas of plant health management, plant diseases, plant-microbe interactions and environmental sciences.

Program

Pesticide applicator certification standards are set to ensure that restricted pesticides are available to those who protect food, forage, structures, health, water, rights-of-way, and landscapes.

Program

In the Natural Resources project area, youth gain knowledge and experience in a variety of outdoor topic areas such as water conservation, outdoor living skills, forestry, fishing, and more. Young Texans involved in these projects are introduced to a vast array of educational and fun opportunities to be immersed in the world around them.

Courses

Course

Diseases in horses can spread rapidly, posing significant risks to herd health. This 1.5-hour self-paced course is designed to help horse owners and professionals identify, prevent, and manage common equine diseases. Covering both viral and bacterial infections, the course emphasizes the importance of routine vaccinations and effective biosecurity practices. By understanding how to spot and control these diseases, participants can reduce risks and ensure the well-being of their horses. Enroll today to protect your equine partners and enhance your knowledge.

Course

This online course for Texas Master Beekeepers tracks the progress of program participants as they advance through the levels: Apprentice, Advanced, Master, and Master Craftsman. Participants use this tracking portal to upload certificates from online courses, log public service hours and major or core credits, and communicate with the TMBP board.

Course

Do you know how to apply IPM principles to your school garden as required by Texas state law? After this course, learners will know how IPM principles apply to school gardens, differentiate between harmful and beneficial insects, and more. District School IPM Coordinators can use this module as part of their education plan.

All Resources on Insects, Pests & Diseases

  • Publication

    Phomopsis affects grapes in vineyards across Texas—especially in wet, humid regions. This 2-page factsheet gives you expert-backed strategies to identify, manage, and prevent it. Download your free copy now.

  • Course

    This online course will provide an overview and in-depth knowledge of mosquitoes
    of Texas, the diseases they carry, and how to properly manage them.

  • Course

    This introductory course is for School district administrators, animal control specialists, code enforcement agents, and pest management professionals. This course offers SPCS-TDA license holders 1 Pest CEU toward annual license renewal.

  • Publication

    Finding bugs in your pantry can be stressful. This easy-to-follow factsheet shows you how to identify red flour beetles, get rid of them safely, and keep your dry goods protected for good. Download your free copy today!

  • Course

    This course is for new or veteran school IPM coordinators, school administrators, and others who need to understand the Texas school IPM requirements.

  • Course

    This online course will teach you how to check for bed bugs, what they look like, how to get rid of bed bugs, and modern treatment options.

  • Course

    This introductory course will teach you to connect ant behavior and treatment methods, identify different species, perform ant treatments, and solve problems using IPM practices. In Texas, this course is approved for one hour of General-Pest Features category CEU credit.

  • Publication

    A new aphid pest has infested grain sorghum in Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Mexico.

  • Course

    This four-course aquatic vegetation series provides landowners and pesticide applicators biological information for submerged, algae, floating, and emergent species of problematic aquatic plants found in Texas.

  • Course

    This course is designed for landowners and pesticide applicators who are looking for aquatic vegetation management techniques or CEUs. During this course, you will learn why aquatic vegetation is problematic, how to manage it, prevention methods, and effective forms of control and mode of action.

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