Management strategies for tarnished plant bugs, Lygus lineolaris, in cotton

The tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot deBeouvos), is the most economically significant insect pest of cotton, Gossypium hirsutum (L.), in the Mid-South region due to its ability to feed on cotton plants throughout their growth cycle. Targeting leaf buds and reproductive structures such as squares, flowers, and fruit, tarnished plant bug infestations lead to substantial economic damage. The most significant yield losses caused by tarnished plant bugs typically occur from late squaring to early bloom. These pests inject salivary enzymes while feeding on squares and small bolls, leading to their abscission from the plant and impacting yield. To mitigate these losses, proactive monitoring and treatment application are essential before and after the bloom stages of cotton. Implementing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including regular scouting, establishing action thresholds, cultural practices, and selective insecticide use, can effectively manage tarnished plant bug infestations while promoting sustainable crop production practices.