Alternative Control Measures for TPB in Mississippi

Authors

M. Portilla, USDA-ARSFollow

Abstract

Tarnished plant bug (TPB), Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), is a common pest of the main agricultural crops in Mississippi, particularly of cotton in the Mississippi Delta. Tarnished Plant Bug in cotton is economically important through reductions of crop yield. Losses may vary depending on TPB population levels, environmental conditions, or efficacy of insecticides. For more than 60 years numerous investigations on TPB control have been conducted based on biology, hosts, and distribution; however, more studies need to be conducted on ecology, behavior, and population dynamics to better understand its control. The experiences gained in the last 30 years of research should be reanalyzed in the context of an optimized Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program for this insect. New approaches to the management of TPB in Mississippi with a better and broader realization of the vital role of natural control agents in regulation of this insect population are needed.

Recommended Citation

Portilla, M. (2014) "Alternative Control Measures for TPB in Mississippi," Midsouth Entomologist: Vol. 7: No. 2, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/midsouthent/vol7/iss2/7