The predatory stinkbug <i>Podisus nigrispinus</i>: biology, ecology and augmentative releases for lepidoperan larval control in <i>Eucalyptus</i> forests in Brazil.
2006
Torres, J. B. | Zanuncio, J. C. | Moura, M. A.
<i>Podisus nigrispinus</i> feeds primarily on insect larvae. It has been reared and released in Brazil to control lepidopterous larvae, particularly defoliators of <i>Eucalyptus</i> trees, but inoculative releases and conservation of natural populations in other crops have also been attempted. Aspects favouring the use of <i>P. nigrispinus</i> as a biocontrol agent include: (i) cost-effective mass-rearing capabilities with alternative prey or artificial diets; (ii) compatibility of the predator with some insecticides and forest production practices; (iii) natural occurrence in diverse habitats associated with lepidopteran outbreaks. The biology and ecology of <i>P. nigrispinus</i> and its mass production and use to control defoliating lepidopteran larvae in <i>Eucalyptus</i> plantations are discussed, and research needs to expand its use in pest management are outlined.
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