New Invasive Pest Threatens Texas Pastures, Raising Concerns in Houston

A newly identified invasive insect is rapidly spreading across Texas and damaging pasture grasses, prompting concern among state agriculture experts and land managers. While the earliest and most severe impacts have been reported in Central and East Texas, officials warn that the threat could expand toward major metro areas like Houston as conditions continue to favor the pest’s growth.

According to recent reports, the insect has shown an alarming ability to destroy forage grasses that support cattle and other livestock. The pest feeds aggressively, leaving behind thin, brown, and brittle pastures that are unable to recover without significant rainfall or intervention. Scientists say the level of destruction being observed is similar to damage created by armyworms, but the new insect appears to spread more consistently through the warm months.

Texas A&M AgriLife researchers are working to identify long‑term strategies to mitigate the pest’s impact. Early findings indicate that the insect thrives in prolonged heat and high humidity—conditions that mirror much of the Houston region for much of the year. That climate alignment has raised concerns that the insect could eventually affect regional grasslands, private ranches, and even decorative landscapes across Harris County.

Why it matters

Texas is one of the nation’s leading cattle producers, and healthy pastures are critical to supporting that industry. Any widespread damage to forage grasses could increase feed costs, stress local ranchers, and disrupt rural economies. The Houston area relies heavily on agricultural products from surrounding counties, which means long-term ecosystem damage could ripple into food and livestock supply chains that serve the city.

Beyond agriculture, invasive pests often reshape natural ecosystems. The loss of native grasses can accelerate erosion, reduce habitat quality for wildlife, and increase the need for costly land restoration. If the insect expands into the Gulf Coast region, environmental managers may have to introduce new monitoring and treatment strategies to protect parks, greenbelts, and wetlands.

What’s next

State and regional experts advise landowners to watch for thinning grass, rapid browning, and bare soil patches that appear even with adequate watering or rainfall. Because the insect is newly identified, recommended treatments are still being refined. Land managers may need to combine traditional pest control materials with updated guidance from agricultural extension agents.

For residents in and around Houston, monitoring local vegetation will be important as the pest’s range becomes better understood. Officials encourage proactive reporting of suspected infestations to help track the insect’s spread and develop faster responses.

This article is a summary of reporting by CultureMap Dallas. Read the full story here.