Pacific Pests, Pathogens and Weeds

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Summary

• Widespread distribution. A pest of food and field legumes, especially cowpeas, and other Vigna species. Minor pest.
• Adults and nymphs suck pods causing pitting and shrivelling of seeds. Also, damage flowers and buds.
• Adults are 10-12 mm long, dull brown, narrow, almost parallel-sided, with cream stripe along the side, and prominent eyes. Nymphs are ant-like.
• Cultural control: plant far from already infested crops; handpick bugs where plots are small; destroy remains of plants after harvest.
• Chemical control: PDPs, e.g., derris, pyrethrum or chilli. If commercial products needed, use synthetic pyrethroids or malathion. Use products recommended against green vegetable bug (see Fact Sheet no. 98).