Effect of cotton genotypes on the Western bigeyed bug (Heteroptera: Miridae)

First, second, and third instar nymphs and adults of Geocoris pallens Stal, were caged on leaves of four cotton genotypes: "Acala SJ-2" (a commercial cultivar), H6124 and G8160 (nectariless and glandless breeder lines, respectively), and HG469 (a high gossypol, breeder line). They were variously provided with or deprived of access to nectar or prey. Longevity of all stages and development were greatly reduced on all cotton types when the insects were deprived of both prey and nectar. Longevity was extended considerably on all cotton genotypes when G. pallens were provided access to a nectary or artificially provided with nectar. G. pallens provided with an abundance of prey did not appear to need nectar for survival and development on any of the cotton genotypes. In the absence of prey, G. pallens did not develop to the adult stage and adult insects ceased oviposition.