First report of Monalonion bondari (Hemiptera: Miridae) as the causal agent of lateral shoot dieback in Eucalyptus spp. in Brazil and its control strategies

In this study, we demonstrate the importance of Monalonion bondari as the primary causal agent of lateral shoot dieback in Eucalyptus spp. plantations in Brazil. Field trials showed that applications of thiamethoxam and bifenthrin significantly reduced insect populations, providing protective effects for up to 15 days after application. These results constitute the first report of M. bondari causing damage to eucalypts in Brazil and offer evidence-based strategies for its chemical control.