Host and distribution records of Helopeltis clavifer (Walker) (Heteroptera: Miridae) in Papua New Guinea.
Smith E. S. C.
Author Affiliation: Lowlands Agricultural Experiment Station, Keravat, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea.
Papua New Guinea Agricultural Journal 29 : 1-4
Abstract : A total of 25 plant species, representing 15 families, are recorded as food-plants of Helopeltis clavifer (Wlk.) in Papua New Guinea; 17 of these are new records for this mirid and include cashew, guava, custard apple, mango and passion fruit. Notes are given on the nature of the usual damage caused to green stems, leaves and fruits, and on the distribution of H. clavifer within Papua New Guinea. Although at present the species is a serious pest of only 2 cash crops (cacao and tea) in this region, extensive damage has been recorded on other economic plants, and it is feared that, as agricultural development continues and further plants are grown as cash crops, H. clavifer may become a major pest of these also.