which results in about 49% crop loss caused specifically by Dysdercus spp. In addition, D. peruvianus is an important vector of phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi (i.e. Colletotrichum gossypii) (Gallo 1988). Their life cycle from egg to adult has 5 nymphal stages and takes 28–32 days at 28C (Milano et al. 1999).