Physiological parameters of paddy rice under infestations of Tibraca limbativentris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) adults

Abstract

Feeding by stink bugs may change gas-exchange activity of host plants. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feed by Tibraca limbativentris adults on the physiological parameters of paddy rice. The experiment was performed in screenhouse conditions. Rice plants were infested for two and four insects adult. Control plots were maintained with no insect infestation. Photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and intercellular CO2 were measured at different times. The photosynthesis and stomatal conductance rates were reduced with the highest density of T. limbativentris only at 72 h after infestation. Intercellular CO2 was not affected by stink bugs feeding; however, inhibition of photosynthesis likely was due to a reduction of transpiration rate. These results indicate that substantial physiological impact on paddy rice by T limbativentris adults is possible.