Characterization of mirid assemblages (Heteroptera, Miridae) in mango orchards in Reunion Island and implementation of identification and recognition tools

Introduction – Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is the second most important tropical fruit produced worldwide. In Reunion Island, serious losses are the result of damage caused by Orthops palus (Taylor, 1947) (Heteroptera, Miridae). This bug sucks the sap of mango inflorescences, causing them to dry out. However, little is known about this pest and the other mirid species present in mango orchards. The aim of the present study was to characterize the mirid species assemblages in mango orchards in Reunion Island and to design tools for the taxonomic identification and for the recognition of these species in the field. Materials and methods – Surveys were conducted in 14 mango orchards (var. José and Cogshall) between 2012 and 2014. Observations were made in the canopy and in ground cover. The individuals collected were identified to species level. Results and discussion – Thirteen species were inventoried of the 1695 individuals collected and identified. Orthops palus was the dominant species on mango (more than 80% of the individuals collected) and the only species present in significant numbers on inflorescences. In addition, three mirid identification and recognition tools were implemented: a taxonomic identification key to species level; Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences of 12 of 13 catalogued species, published on GenBank and available for molecular identification of species; a flyer for mirid recognition in the field designed for farmers. Conclusion – These results and tools help assess mirid diversity in mango orchards and to develop agroecological management of O. palus populations. (Résumé d'auteur