Green vegetable bug (Nezara viridula [L.]) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in Australian pecans

[Extract] The green vegetable bug, Nezara viridula (L.), is a cosmopolitan pest, possibly originating from the Ethiopian or Mediterranean region (Hokkanen, 1986). This pentatomid first appeared in NSW in 1916 and then spread to other states of Australia (Wilson 1960). Nymphs and adults feed on stems, petioles and fruit. In Australia a wide range of vegetables, fruit, agricultural crops (particularly legumes) and developing seeds, including macadamia (Ironside, 979), are damaged by this insect. In the USA, N. viridula is a major pest of pecans (Carya illinoensis [Wangenh.]C. Koch), causing "black pit", hich results in premature nut drop and black spotting in mature nuts (Turner, 1923). Polles et al., (1973) has shown that fourth instar nymphs and adults can cause nut abscission in cage experiments. However, only adults are known to occur in the tree crowns of pecans (Dutcher & Todd, 1983).