Studies on the biology of Elasmomia granulipes Westwood (Coreidae-Hemiptera) on Chilli in Manipur

Elasmomia granulipes Westw is an important polyphagous bug. During a survey it has been observed feeding on the different parts of the Chilli plants i n the field. Its incidence has been found to be more during the months of M arch to September. Its infestation during the above period indicates that i t is a major pest of Chilli in this area. The present communication therefo re, deals with the laboratory biology of this bug. Its biology in the labor atory on potted Chilli plants revealed that the bug is a tetramoulter and p asses through five nymphal instars. The third and fourth nymphal instars ha ve been found to be most destructive as they continuously suck the plant ju ice for a longer duration. The entire life cycle is completed in 72.19 to 7 4.33 days on Chilli in different seasons. The effects of certain environmen tal factors have been studied and have been found to influence its life his tory to a considerable extent.