Adults eat foliage but seldom occur in damaging number. They are found at the soil surface in silk and soil tubes next to the plant. Larvae of this insect wiggle violently when disturbed. Caterpillars tunnel or girdle small soybean plants at the ground level. Some plants may die, whereas others are severely stunted and may lodge.
Damage is most common in late-planted soybeans on dry, sandy soils.
This insect can be a serious pest of soybean. Picture Recommendations for insecticides that are effective in managing insect problems in soybeans can be obtained from the local Extension agent or the North Carolina Agricultural Chemical Manual , also available from the county Extension office.