Diversity and seasonal dynamics of Miridae (Hemiptera) associated with cowpea in the Piauí state, Brazil

ABSTRACT Despite the wide range of insects associated with cowpea, the roles of certain groups, including Miridae, remain poorly understood. This study aimed to identify the diversity of Miridae species associated with cowpea and the seasonal dynamics of these species during two growing periods, in the Piauí state, Brazil. The insects were collected using sweep nets throughout the phenological cycle of the crop, covering the rainy and dry seasons. In total, 306 mirid samples, representing 13 species, were collected, being Creontiades rubrinervis, Cyrtocapsus femoralis and Horciasinus signoreti the most abundant ones, particularly during the reproductive stage of the crop. The highest diversity was observed during the rainy season, highlighting the effects of the season on Miridae populations in the cowpea agroecosystem.