Adult cotton jassids captured from cotton. Note two black spots in the wings. (Photo by James Villegas, LSU AgCenter)

Cotton jassids, also known as two-spot cotton leafhoppers, have been detected in cotton in Alexandria. Two adult jassids were captured in approximately 200 sweeps using sweepnets. This detection follows last year’s finding of cotton jassids on cotton regrowth in Louisiana, confirming the need for continued monitoring in cotton fields this season.

Cotton jassids are small, pale-green leafhoppers that feed on the undersides of leaves. Their feeding can cause “hopperburn,” which may appear as leaf yellowing, curling, reddening, browning, and eventual leaf drop under heavy pressure. Severe infestations have been associated with rapid field injury and potential yield losses, making early detection important.

Note that several other leafhoppers may resemble cotton jassids. Adult cotton jassids can often be distinguished by the presence of two black spots, typically one near the tip of each forewing; however, markings can sometimes be faint, and final confirmation may require expert identification.

Continue scouting cotton fields closely, especially field edges and the undersides of leaves where jassids and nymphs are most likely to be found. Current Extension guidance from other affected states recommends looking for nymphs on mainstem leaves three to five nodes below the terminal and watching for early hopperburn symptoms.

If you find suspected cotton jassids in cotton, please report the observation and, if possible, provide photos or specimens to LSU AgCenter Field Crop Entomologists James Villegas (jvillegas@agcenter.lsu.edu, 225-266-3805) or Dawson Kerns (ddkerns@agcenter.lsu.edu, 806-474-7220). Early reports will help track the spread of this invasive pest and support timely management decisions for Louisiana cotton.