- Widespread distribution. A pest of food and field legumes, especially cowpeas, and other Vigna species. Minor pest.
- Adults and nymphs suck pods causing pitting and shrivelling of seeds. Also, damage flowers and buds.
- Adults are 10-12 mm long, dull brown, narrow, almost parallel-sided, with cream stripe along the side, and prominent eyes. Nymphs are ant-like.
- Cultural control: plant far from already infested crops; handpick bugs where plots are small; destroy remains of plants after harvest.
- Chemical control: PDPs, e.g., derris, pyrethrum or chilli. If commercial products needed, use synthetic pyrethroids or malathion. Use products recommended against green vegetable bug (see Fact Sheet no. 98).