Balsam Pear bug
Namibian crop pests  #  107

unknown Order:  Family: 


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This species was found on fruits of Balsam Pear (Momordica sp.) A very similar species was found on grenadilla at Onankali Nursery and given the name leaf-footed tip wilter, No 17. The behaviour seemed quite different, however, and young stages were never found of no. 17.  Until further notice I recommend that we keep them separate and only merge them after a positive identification.
 

Cluster of small red nymphs

Black and red nymph

Nymphs on Balsam Pear fruit

Two adult leaf-footed bugs

 

Common names: 

No vernacular names were recorded 

Pest status:

Unknown

Distribution:

Only found once, on 6 April 2001 at Rural Development Centre in Ongwediva, Oshana region.

Description:

The small nymphs are red and tend to cluster on the food plant. Later on, they change to black with red stripes or spots. The underside is covered with red and black patterns.

The mature bug is 20 mm long, dark brown to black with a yellow line and yellow spots on the shield. The hind legs are clearly winged and have two yellow dots.

Control:

No control is recommended at present

Other notes:

A similar species was found on Grenadilla at Onankali Nursery



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