Survey of The Abundance of ‘Offa’ The Groundnut Sucking Bug (Rhyparochromus Littoralis Dist) An Emerging Field Insect Pest of Groundnut in Adamawa Central Senatorial District, Adamawa State Nigeria

Abstract

An intensive survey to determine the abundance of the groundnut sucking bug locally referred to as ‘offa’ an emerging post harvest field insect pest of groundnut was carried out in groundnut growing areas in the Adamawa Central Senatorial District of  Adamawa State in the North Eastern region of Nigeria during the 2009, 2010 and 2011 cropping seasons.  Agronomic and socio-economic details of approximately 100 farms were collected simultaneously.  The insect survey concentrated on the sucking bug as well as other insects that pose threat for groundnut production in the study area.  The Groundnut Sucking bug ‘offa’ (R. littoralis) was the predominant taxon and considerably cause reductions in crop yield.  Pod borers (elaterids, tenebrionoids, doryline ants and millipedes) were generally present but rarely at sufficient densities to warrant concern.  Hilda patruelis was encountered in high densities in areas where the crops had been sown early.  Foliage feeders were apparently of no economic importance except where insecticides had been applied.  The survey indicated that groundnut crops are devasted by the groundnut sucking bug at harvest, especially when it is left too long on the field which could result to 100% loss in yield (zero harvest).

Key Words:- Emerging, abundance, sucking bug, density, insecticide, insect pest, post harvest