Many insects occur in rice, but few can be considered pests.
In general, insect problems in Missouri rice are much less severe than in other rice-producing areas of the United States. The most common insect pests in rice in Missouri are the rice water weevil and the rice stink bug. Several other insects may rarely cause severe damage in individual fields. The following control recommendations are based on work conducted in Missouri and adjacent rice-producing states, particularly Arkansas. They are designed to provide adequate, economical pest control while minimizing insecticide use.