The brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Heteroptera): A new threat for hazelnut crops in Serbia

Abstract

Hazelnut crops are damaged by various types of polyphagous true bugs. The most commonly encountered species are representatives of the families Coreidae and Pentatomidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) Recent invasion of the exotic brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) represents a serious threat in many agroecosystems in Europe. Following its first detection, H. halys has become a key pest in many hazelnut crops in Europe, causing damage throughout the entire period of nut and kernel development. The pest causes damage in adults and larval stages by sucking sap from practically all parts of plants. This bug is characterized by a distinct polyphagous behavior, so to date, more than 300 plant species have been identified as food hosts. Halyomorpha halys was first registered in Serbia in October 2015 in the region of Vršac. Detection of brown marmorated bug in hazelnut crops in Serbia calls for caution and requires systematic monitoring of this pest in order to determine an adequate strategy for plant protection and accurate timing of its control. In hazelnut crops, this bug causes damage by sucking juices from the husk, shell and kernel of the fruit, which significantly reduces the quality and market value of the hazelnut fruit. Management of the brown marmorated stink bug in agricultural settings has primarily relied on the use of broad-spectrum of insecticides. In the system of Integrated Pest Management, the control of H. halys is based on a strategy that implies a reduced and effective use of insecticides and a distinct knowledge of the biology and behavior of the pest. Monitoring insect populations is a fundamental component of Integrated Pest Management programs. In a perspective of reduction or avoidance of chemical treatments and preservation of a healthy agroecosystems, such as the, alternative pest management strategies in hazelnut orchards should be further developed. Moreover, as a long-term solution, biological control of H. halys with the natural enemy species, native or introduced, could play a major role in managing this pest, especially in organic farming systems.