Distribution Patterns and Abundance of the Dura Andat, Agonoscelis pubescens (Thunb.), and other Pentatomids Across Habitat Patches in the Central Clay Plain of Sudan*

Abstract

Field surveys were carried out at three locations in the central
clay plain of Sudan at Gedarif, Blue Nile and North Darfur States. The
objective was to determine the most preferred resting sites of the dura
andat, Agonoscelis pubescens , and other associated pentatomid species.
These sites are where the chemical control campaigns of this pest are
conducted every year. The results showed that A. pubescens preferred
certain types of trees as resting sites and that different pentatomid species
aggregated and stayed together with it at these sites. A. pubescens was
the main species sheltering on trees, while Carbula pedalis, an
unconfirmed pest of sorghum, was the main species sheltering in
mountain caves. Each of these two species seemed to join with a set of
specific group of pentatomids, which differed from those associated with
the other. It is argued that control of C. pedalis may be unnecessary if it is
proved that this insect is neither a pest of sorghum nor of any other main
crop.