Population Fluctuations of Oxycarenus Hyalinipennis and Effect of Certain Compounds on Its Population on Okra in Assiut Governorate

Abstract

opulation fluctuations of the cotton seed bug Oxycarenus hyalinipennis (Costa) was monitored on okra (Abelmoschus spp.) in Assiut governorate, northern Upper Egypt during 2009 and 2010. In both seasons the pest showed two peaks. The first peak was recorded in the third week of July, while the second one was recorded in mid August. Gradually increase of the pest numbers was detected before each peak and coincided with the increase of the nymphal stage populations. This could be proved that O. hyalinipennis may be having two generations on okra planted in northern Upper Egypt. The ability of certain chemical and safe alternative compounds in reducing O. hyalinipennis populations in okra dry fruits was determined. The chemical compound Sumithion 50% EC reduced the pest numbers by 92.21%. However, the tested safe alternative compounds had quietly less effect (ranged from 37.58% to 80.74%). Although the latter compounds ranked the second, they could be used as a promising tool in suppressing O. hyalinipennis infestation on okra dry fruits for their acceptable reduction percentage in the pest populations. Furthermore, they can be applied more than one time in one okra growing season.