Painted bug

Scientific name: Bagrada hilaris
Description: The painted bug is a serious pest of the mustard. Damage is caused by nymphs as well as by adults. The full- grown nymphs are about 4mm long and 2.66 mm broad. They are black with a number of brown markings .The adult bugs are 3.71 mm long and 3.33 mm broad. They are sub-ovate, black and have a number of orange or brownish spots.
Nature of damage: Both nymphs and adults suck cell sap from the leaves and developing pods, which gradually wilt and dry up. The nymphs and adult bugs also excrete a sort of resinous material which spoils ate pods.
Control Measures: Give the first irrigation 3-4 weeks after sowing to reduces the bug population. Spray one liter of malathion 50 EC or 625 ml of endosulfan 35 EC or quinalphos 25 EC in 150-200 litres of water per ha.