Host and Distribution Records of Helopeltis claviter (Walker) (Heteroptera: Miridae) in Papua New Guinea.

Abstract

A total of 25 plant species, representing 15 families are recorded as hosts of the mirid Helopeltis clavifer (Walker) in Papua New Guinea. Seventeen of these are new records. The host plant feeding damage and distribution of H. clavifer is also outlined. Although the insect is at present a serious pest of only two crops (cocoa and tea) in certain areas of this country, it is possible that as agricultural development continues, it may develop into a pest of other crops grown here.