ABSTRACT
Murgantia histrionica, the harlequin bug, is an important pest of crucifers. The migration of Murgantia histrionica was monitored closely during the late 1800s and early 1900s because of its proven pest status. Murgantia histrionica produces several warning secretions emitted from either the metathoracic or prothoracic gland when disturbed. An "Age of Pesticides" began in the 1940s with Paul Muller's discovery of the insecticidal properties of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and, since that time, chemical control has persisted as the predominant tactic used for pest management in most agricultural systems including control of Murgantia histrionica on brassica vegetables. In the 1940s, effective control of Murgantia histrionica was achieved with dust applications of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane or other chlorinated hydrocarbons including chlorinated camphene, chlordane, and benzene hexachloride. Carbamates and organophosphates gradually would replace the chlorinated hydrocarbons in vegetable production in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. These cholinesterase-inhibiting insecticides have broad-spectrum activity against many insect pests, and Murgantia histrionica is no exception.
