Nysius cymoides (Heteroptera, Lygaeidae), an emerging insect pest in Tunisia

• DOI: 10.1111/epp.12568
• Publication Date: 2019-07-05T13:14:40Z
• Authors: D. Haouas; H. Glida‐Gnidez; C. Hafsi; H. Nhaili; A. Matocq
• Keywords: [SDV] Life Sciences [q-bio]; 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

In June 2018 a serious infestation of chilli pepper plants and tomato seedlings was observed which caused major crop losses. This infestation was caused by Nysius cymoides (Heteroptera: Lygaeidae: Orsillinae). The insect was also seen nearby on barley and oilseed rape as well as on newly planted olive trees, acacia and some weeds. This is the first observation of such insect damage in Tunisia. A brief description of its morphology and the damage caused is given. The false chinch bug was treated with an imidacloprid‐based insecticide.