HPIPM:False Chinch Bug

Author: Frank B. Peairs[1]

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

The false chinch bug, Nysius raphanus Howard, is an occasional pests of wheat in the Great Plains. False chinch bug adults are gray, while the immatures are a pale gray with a reddish abdomen. All stages overwinter, although nymphs predominate. These insects breed continuously and probably have several generations per year. Eggs are laid in soil cracks and on plants. False chinch bugs are found in native grasslands throughout the year, but nymphs tend to disperse in the spring and again in the fall. A wide variety of crops may be damaged during these swarming periods.

Plant response and damage

Adults and nymphs suck plant fluids, resulting in severely stunted or dead wheat if the bugs are abundant.

Management approaches

Biological Control

No applied biological controls exist for the control of false chinch bugs.

Cultural Control

Cultural practices that promote thick vigorous stands are recommended to minimize chinch bug damage.

Chemical Control

Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the sponsors of this web site assume no liability for the suggested use of any chemicals noted in the management section. Contact your local pest management personnel for current information on labeled pesticides that can be used for the intended plant disease, insect pest or weed.