Texas Beef Industry Profits Eaten Away by Threat of Screwworm

The resurgence of the New World screwworm, a parasitic maggot that devours livestock from within, is causing significant financial distress in Texas' beef industry. This pest, which James Henderson encountered as a teenager in the 1970s, threatens to devastate cattle populations once more, leading to substantial losses for farmers. This issue is critical as it highlights the ongoing battle against invasive species and underscores the importance of effective pest control measures in protecting agricultural economies. The resurgence of such a long-standing threat also emphasizes the need for continued research and funding in agricultural sciences to safeguard against future outbreaks.