Corn root worm has started to appear in crops in Manitoba, and producers should be on the look out.

Manitoba Corn Growers Association agronomist Morgan Cott says it's not a disease that's usually found in Manitoba, it was found in the province last year, as well as a few new fields this year. Cott says it can be a big yield robber, and describes what growers should be looking for.

"You're looking for the adult beetles," she says, "they're three-quarters of an inch to an inch large, and a light yellow to pale green colour. They just sort of jump around and they feed on silk."

Cott says this can cause significant yield damage, by preventing the ears won't pollinate properly.

She says producers who've grown corn in the same field for two or more years should be checking for corn root worm. If growers find the insect, Cott says they should contact her at the MCGA office, or John Gavloski with Manitoba Agriculture.