Biological observations of the overwinter adult Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) in spring

The spring feeding hosts, biological development and behaviors of overwintering adult kudzu bugs, M. cribraria were investigated in early spring. With an average overwintering gender ratio of 1: 1.16 (F:M), adults were observed aggregating abundantly on almost all the plant species in and near the monitored kudzu plots. Feeding was apparent on Eastern redbud (Cercis Canadensis) and Baccharis spp, and most notably on Red-tip (Photinia spp.) until later March when kudzu (Pueraria lobata) became available. Mating and egg-laying were evident on many of the investigated plants in early April, but only those on kudzu survived after hatching. Egg clutches were rather consistent among non-host plants and average egg clutches per plant species was calculated. Eggs located on kudzu were most commonly found on the terminal tips closest to bud sheaths and less frequently located on leaves. 1^st instar nymphs were first recognized on April-29. In summary, kudzu bugs will indiscriminately ovipostion on non-host vegetation in spring and will initially feed on non-host plant materials before kudzu (Pueraria lobata) begins bud expansion in spring. The investigation is continuing to examine movement of adults to soybeans and vegetable beans, as well as ecological behavior and management.