PEST

NAME
Spined Citrus Bug
Biprorulus bibax

ORDER
Hemiptera

FAMILY
Pentatomidae

Description of the Pest
Adults grow up to 20mm in length, and are bright green, shield-shaped bugs with prominent shoulder horns on the thorax. Young nymphs are yellowish-orange and black, becoming green on maturity. The spined citrus bug has piercing and sucking mouth parts.

     

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
A native of Queensland and NSW.

Life Cycle
This insect has a Hemimetabolouslife cycle, ie. When the immature nymphsresemble the adults.
There are five nymphal stages; later stages and adults eject a foul-smelling liquid that stains skin yellow. Five generations may appear annually.

Period of Activity
Early Spring to late Autumn, and particularly during humid Summer periods.

Damage Caused
Both nymphs and adults feed on fruit. Immature fruit that is attacked will fall prematurely; damaged mature fruit has dried-up segments, with internal gumming.

Susceptible Plants
Spined citrus bugs attack native limes (Microcitrus glaucaand M. australasica) and other citrus fruit.

Cultural Control
Remove by hands (wear gloves to avoid noxious exudate).

BiologicalControl
Natural predators, including parasitic wasps and assassin bugs, have little significant effect.

Assassin Bug Nymph

Chemical Control
Spray with Maldison.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.