Mirid bug, Helopeltis cinchonae Mann: a new pest of economically important horticultural crops in Northeast India

The mirid bug, Helopeltis cinchonae Mann (Order: Hemiptera) has been recorded for the first time on six economically important horticultural crops in India. The infestation of H. cinchonae was considerably higher during June–July on guava, geranium and chrysanthemum plants; whereas during August–September on brinjal and chili plants. Mirid bug, H. cinchonae was found causing significant yield losses to guava fruits and chili plants in Meghalaya. This study provides basic knowledge on biology, feeding damage and morphological characters of H. cinchonae supported with its DNA barcode and phylogeny.