NEVIPIT

The main aim of this project is to provide essential tools for a fast and accurate identification of the parasitoid species that attack the invasive green vegetable bug Nezara viridula (L.) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), and thus significantly increase the chances of successful worldwide biological control programs against this important pest, which are currently not effective mainly due to the incomplete or / and unreliable taxonomic information regarding the natural enemies of the pest. This species is the most important pentatomid pest of agricultural crops in the world. It is a highly polyphytophagous feeder attacking more than 150 species of plants from various families. The overall consequence of the attack is a reduced quality and marketability of many crops. Nezara viridula is also an important vector for pathogenic organisms, the feeding punctures providing access for fungal and bacterial infection. The species is difficult to manage with pesticides because it feeds on interior plant tissues, bypassing the ingestion of pesticides that are deposited on the surfaces of plant tissues. As a result, biological control seems to be a viable alternative, especially in the frame of the organic farming, which is a constantly increasing agricultural sector worldwide.