RECORDS OF TWO PEST SPECIES, LEPTOGLOSSUS ZONATUS (HETEROPTERA: COREIDAE) AND PACHYCORIS KLUGII (HETEROPTERA: SCUTELLERIDAE), FEEDING ON THE PHYSIC NUT, JATROPHA CURCAS, IN MEXICO.

Abstract

The physic nut, Jatropha curcas L. (Malphighiales: Euphorbiaceae), is one of 75 plant species suitable for the production of biodiesel. Moreover, it is considered as having great agro industrial potential worldwide, on account of its potential for obtaining high quality oil, and its ease of cultivation (Martin & Mayeux 1984; Azan et al. 2005). Plantings of J. curcas have been established around the world, and more recently in various states of Mexico (Michoacán, Chiapas, Puebla, Yucatán, Veracruz, Guerrero, Oaxaca and Morelos) with the principal aim of obtaining biodiesel (Martinez et al. 2010). However, unlike in other countries where this plant is extensively cultivated, in Mexico no studies have been carried out to identify potential insect pests that could affect J. curcas production. The aim of this research was to study insects associated with J. curcas, and to determine potential pests of this plant in Mexico, where it probably originated.