Ecological zoning of Euschistus heros in Brazil based on the net reproductive rate at different temperatures and relative-humidity levels

The Neotropical brown stink bug, Euschistus heros (Fabricius, 1798) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is one of the major insect pests in soybean crops, causing severe damage; however, some aspects of its biology that are essential for management remain unknown. To aid in the management of E. heros, the present study investigated the fertility life table of this species at 7 temperatures (18, 20, 22, 25, 28, 30, and 32 +/- 1 degrees C) and 4 relative-humidity levels (30, 50, 70, and 90 +/- 10%). Based on the net reproductive rate, R-0, we developed an ecological zoning for this pest in Brazil, to identify climatically favorable areas for population growth. Our results indicated that the most favorable range is between 25 and 28 degrees C and above 70% RH. The ecological zoning indicated that farmers should be more concerned in the northern and Midwest regions, which include the state of Mato Grosso, the largest soybean and corn producer in Brazil. These results provide valuable information, indicating the hotspots most likely to be attacked by the Neotropical brown stink bug.

Automated summary

The study investigated the fertility life table of the Neotropical brown stink bug and identified climatically favorable areas for its population growth in Brazil. The results showed that the temperature range of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius and relative humidity above 70% are the most suitable conditions for the bug's growth. The northern and Midwest regions in Brazil, particularly the state of Mato Grosso, are most likely to be attacked by this pest.