Red cotton bug

Symptom

The adult insect is bright orange-red in color. The head is red with a distinct white collar, and the abdomen is black. The hindwings feature two prominent black spots. Infestation typically begins at the flowering stage. Both nymphs and adult insects feed by sucking sap from flower buds and young pods, causing damage. They also feed on leaves and immature seeds, leading to premature drop. Infestation occurs from the flowering stage until harvest, resulting in reduced yield and deterioration of crop quality. It is essential to implement effective control measures during the flowering stage.