Amaranth XVI-4
Tarnished Plant Bugs
Gary L. Hein
Lygus bug
Tarnished plant bugs are one of several species of Lygus bugs and can be up to 1/4 inch long. They have a distinctive triangular patch about two-thirds back on the wing. Their life cycle will take about 30 days so multiple generations may allow them to build up to sizable populations later in the season. They prefer to feed on succulent growth on the plant. Feeding on the flowers will result in dead flowers and possible brown patches on the head. Damage will begin to be seen when the head is about 1/2 inch long. Tarnished plant bug feeding on immature seeds will result in shriveled and discolored seeds.
Categories: Amaranth, Tarnished plant bugs
Date: 04/19/2006