Occurrence of Stiretrus decastigmus (Herrich-Schaeffer) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) preying on Microtheca semilaevis Stal (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).

ABSTRACT

Microtheca semilaevis Stal is a phythophagous insect associated to Brassicaceae, and frequently occurs with other species of beetles, such as Microtheca ochroloma Stal. Despite its importance to organic farmers, there is no information in the Brazilian literature about its natural enemies. Stiretrus decastigmus (Herrich-Schaeffer) was first found and here reported preying an adult of M. semilaevis in Chinese cabbage in Santa Maria, RS, Brazil (29°43'28″S, 53°43'19″W).