ARS | Publication request: Minute pirate bugs (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)

Submitted to: Encyclopedia of Entomology
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: April 10, 2007
Publication Date: October 10, 2008
Citation: Horton, D.R. 2008. Minute pirate bugs (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae). In: J.. Capinera (ed.), Encyclopedia of Entomology, 2nd edition. Vol 3, pp 2402-2412. Springer.

Interpretive Summary: The pirate bugs (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) are important sources of biological control of pests in vegetable crops and orchards. An ARS scientist at the Yakima Agricultural Research Laboratory has reviewed the biology of the Anthocoridae, and provides information on life history, taxonomy, distribution, and economic benefits for insects in this family. The review provides an up-to-date summary of pirate bug biology. Results will assist workers in biological control programs in potatoes and tree fruit systems.

Technical Abstract: The pirate bugs (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) are important sources of biological control of pests in orchards, vegetable crops, forests, on ornamental plants, and in greenhouses. The systematics and biology of the Anthocoridae is briefly reviewed, and information on life history, systematics and taxonomy, distribution, and economic benefits is summarized for major taxa within this Family.