ARS | Publication request: Development of Mass Rearing Methods, and Novel Methods For Control of the Squash Bug, Anasa Tristis (De Geer) (Heteroptera: Coreidae)

Submitted to: National Meeting of Entomological Society Of America
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: June 29, 2010
Publication Date: July 6, 2010
Citation: Shelby, K., Coudron, T.A. 2010. Development of Mass Rearing Methods, and Novel Methods For Control of the Squash Bug, Anasa Tristis (De Geer) (Heteroptera: Coreidae) [abstract]. National Meeting of Entomological Society Of America. p. 161.

Technical Abstract: The Squash bug, Anasa tristis (De Geer), a major pest of squash, pumpkin, watermelon, cucumber and cantaloupe, uses piercing-sucking mouthparts to imbibe plant fluids. The severity of plant damage resulting from squash bug feeding causes extensive damage to stems resulting in wilting, fruit discoloration and pre/postharvest spoilage. Additionally, A. tristis vectors the causal bacterial agent of Cucurbit yellow vine disease, Serratia marcescens. A challenge impairing researcher’s ability to develop effective control practices is the absence of an artificial diet and delivery system. Continuous rearing of the insect on a defined artificial diet with an accessible diet delivery system would allow the direct experimental feeding of bioactive substances to A. tristis nymphs and adults. We will present the effectiveness of different diet and rearing methods for A. tristis.