Invasions of green mirid (Creontiades dilutus) (Stal) (Hemiptera: Miridae) into cotton - perceptions of Australian crop consultants

摘要

Green minds, Creontiades dilutus (Stal) (Hemiptera, Miridae), are primary pests of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) (Malvaceae) in eastern Australia. Severe infestations delay crop development and reduce yield through boll drop (fruit loss). Most cotton farmers employ crop consultants to monitor mirids and recommend pest management options. Effective pest management needs to account for both increased pest numbers within cotton (i.e. the production of mind offspring), and the movement of mirids into crops (invasions).