Fitness and population build-up of a native predatory bug, <i>Nesidiocoris tenuis</i>, on tomato pinworm, <i>Phthorimaea absoluta</i>, in a modified crop habitat

The tomato pinworm damage, population build-up, the damage and longevity of native predatory bug, Nesidiocoris tenuis in sole crop diversified (pumpkin sunn hemp as border + a patch hedgerow) were studied. Infestation pinworm, Phthorimaea absoluta was found to be highest (5.60 live mines/plant at 20 DAP) compared (1.50 mines per plant). No significant difference number necrotic rings plant observed between tomatoes. development period nymphs N. shortest tomatoes followed by pumpkin. results present study confirmed role diversification supporting build-up bug effecting biological control crop.