First-Generation Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) Can Develop on Soybeans

Megacopta cribraria (F.) (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) was first reported in 2009 near Atlanta, GA. The insect undergoes two generations per year. The first-generation is reported mainly in kudzu during May and June, with the second establishing on both kudzu and soybean during July and August. A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the suitability of two legumes as hosts for first generation M. cribraria. First generation M. cribraria successfully developed on caged potted soybean plants. Conversely, snap beans were not a suitable host under the conditions of this study. A range of 45-50 d was needed to transition from the egg to adult on soybean plants. Although this study was limited to the greenhouse, kudzu may not be an obligate host for the development of first-generation M. cribraria. An important implication of this finding is the establishment for this pest on spring-planted soybean and for the possible expanded geographic range for this pest beyond that of kudzu.