The Australian crop mirid: An emerging pest in lucerne seed production systems in South Australia.

Lucerne is an important pasture species in Australia and pest management is critical in seed crops to maximise yield. The Australian crop mirid (Sidnia kinbergi) is endemic to Australia and NZ and is recognised as a pest of lucerne, clover, pulses, and many horticultural crops. They damage buds, flower, and growing points through feeding. Australian crop mirids have become apparent as an emerging pest in lucerne seed crops in the Upper SE of SA region and information about this pest is limited, particularly in a southern Australian context. This project will undertake a comprehensive review of the current literature to expand our understanding of the Australian crop mirid. This will provide producers and industry advisors with the background information required to progress toward the long-term goal of developing an effective management strategy for this pest that can be integrated into a broader Integrated Pest Management Strategy for the industry .