Army of worms invades local sports grounds

An outbreak of the African armyworm has been reported in several provinces

March 5, 2025

Vryheid Herald 1 minute read

The worms have already eaten parts of the rugby field.

The chairperson of Vryheid Rugby Club, Richard Pace, discovered a ‘sea of worms’ on Monday morning. The cricket field, as well as parts of the rugby field, is infested with African armyworms (Spodoptera exempta). He says the field was still green on Friday, but by Monday morning the worms had already ‘demolished’ the whole of the cricket field and infested part of the rugby field.
An outbreak of the African armyworm has been reported in several provinces, including Limpopo. Specifically, infestations have been noted in Groblersdal, Carolina, Badplaas, Pretoria North and Bronkhorstpruit.
These worms primarily feed on grasses, but can also affect grains such as maize and millet. Pastures are particularly vulnerable; for instance, when kikuyu grass is attacked, it releases cyanide-like compounds that can be toxic to cattle. Therefore, livestock farmers are advised to monitor their pastures closely for signs of infestation.
While chemical control using synthetic pyrethroid insecticides is an option, it may not always be cost-effective due to the extensive areas affected. Additionally, natural predators, including migratory birds, often help manage armyworm populations. Farmers are encouraged to assess the severity of infestations and consider both chemical and natural control methods.
For accurate identification and reporting of African armyworm occurrences, farmers can contact CropLife South Africa by sending images and location details via WhatsApp to Dr Gerhard Verdoorn on 082 446 8946 or Hiresh Ramanand on 082 497 6975. Timely reporting aids in effective management and control of the outbreak.
It is crucial for local farmers to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect their crops and livestock.
The worms are carried by winds from Central Africa, so this is not a localised issue. They invade the country as moths, lay eggs and breed, but die out before winter.