Impact of cover crops and rainfall distribution on Scaptocoris castanea (Hemiptera: Cydnidae)

Impacto de plantas de cobertura e da distribuição de chuvas sobre Scaptocoris castanea (Hemiptera: Cydnidae)

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the population dynamics of the burrower bug (Scaptocoris castanea) in an area with cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) cultivated after cover crops. The insects were counted in soil samples collected at 0-40 cm depth. Insect incidence was documented in 18 cover crops, alone or intercropped, in each plant stage. Rainfall distribution was compared with fluctuations in the burrower bug population. Crotalaria species have a suppressive effect on the insect population, whereas some grass species favor its increase. Rainfall distribution directly influences the insect population.

Index terms
burrower bug; cotton; no-tillage system; pest management; soil pest