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Abstract
The bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura Villeneuve) is an invasive agriculture pest from Southeast Asia that has impacted the hay industry in the Southeast USA. In particular, the BSM has lowered the production and nutritive value of bermudagrass hay [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] for producers in Georgia and the Southeastern United States. Three bermudagrass hay fields and three pastures were surveyed to identify how management practices affect population dynamics of BSM. Mowing significantly reduced BSM damage hayfields compared to grazing in pastures (P=2.937e-06). Still, adult flies increased in population over the course of the season regardless of management (P=0.0085). There is strong correlation between damage levels and adult populations (Sr=.3303). With proper management and timely harvest, producers can lower the overall damage BSM causes to their hay crops.