Biology of the Plant Bugs (Hemiptera: Midridae): Pests, Predators, Opportunists

Alfred G. Wheeler Jr

Biology of the Plant Bugs (Hemiptera: Midridae): Pests, Predators, Opportunists
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Cornell University Press
Country
United States
Published
15 June 2001
Pages
528
ISBN
9780801438271

Biology of the Plant Bugs (Hemiptera: Midridae): Pests, Predators, Opportunists

Alfred G. Wheeler Jr

Plant bugs – Miridae, the largest family of the Heteroptera, or true bugs – are globally important pests of crops such as alfalfa, apple, cocoa, cotton, sorghum, and tea. Some also are predators of crop pests and have been used successfully in biological control. Certain omnivorous plant bugs have been considered both harmful pests and beneficial natural enemies of pests on the same crop, depending on environmental conditions or the perspective of an observer.

As high-yielding varieties that lack pest resistance are planted, mirids are likely to become even more important crop pests. They also threaten crops as insecticide resistance in the family increases, and as the spread of transgenic crops alters their populations. Predatory mirids are increasingly used as biocontrol agents, especially of greenhouse pests such as thrips and whiteflies. Mirids provide abundant opportunities for research on food webs, intraguild predation, and competition.

Recent worldwide activity in mirid systematics and biology testifies to increasing interest in plant bugs. The first thorough review and synthesis of biological studies of mirids in more than 60 years, Biology of the Plant Bugs will serve as the basic reference for anyone studying these insects as pests, beneficial IPM predators, or as models for ecological research.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.