Sustainable management of Nezara viridula in sweet pepper and cucumber

Recently,  a new pest, the Southern green stink bug (Nezara viridula), emerged in the cultivation of pepper and cucumber in Belgium. Although this bug may have its origins in Africa, global warming is now affecting the distribution of this species turning it into a major pest for many crops from more than 30 plant families worldwide. Both young and adult bugs feed on developing fruits, seeds and growing shoots. Their toxic saliva causes direct damage to the plant, such as the wilting of shoots and growing points, cessation of growth, malformations, flower abortion and the formation of discolored and necrotic tissue on fruit that causes quality loss. On the other hand, these puncture wounds facilitate infections by fungi, bacteria and viruses. Moreover, the bug is a known vector of a number of pathogens. Pest control is mainly achieved through the use of broad spectrum chemical insecticides, which poses risks to human health and the environment. In addition, the frequent use of chemical agents promotes resistance development and disrupts the entire biological control system of pests, giving other pests free rein. The main objective of this doctoral research is to develop an innovative integrated pest management strategy (IPM) for N. viridula in the cultivation of bell pepper and cucumber. The emphasis will be on the use of endophytic fungi and bacteria, in combination with available natural control agents. Recent research has shown that certain endophyte fungi and bacteria can indirectly protect plants against pests and diseases. The interactions taking place between microorganisms, host plant, pests and control agents will be studied in detail.