Establishment of a new stink bug pest, Oebalus insularis (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), in Florida rice

Abstract

The stink bug, Oebalus insularis (Stal), was first observed in Florida rice fields in 2007. An extensive survey was conducted during 2008 and 2009 to determine the relative abundance and population biology of O. insularis in Florida rice fields. It occurred in 100% of all fields sampled and constituted 20% of all stink bugs collected. Data from this study show that O. insularis, a well known rice pest in Caribbean islands, Central America, and South America, is now widespread in Florida rice fields. This is the first report of this species being found in commercial rice fields in the United States.