Field observations on the blister beetle, Meloe proscarabaeus l. (coleoptera: meloidae), a threat to faba bean in El-Farafra oasis, western desert, Egypt [electronic resource].

Includes references.

The blister beetle, Meloe proscarabaeus L. (Coleoptera: Meloidae) was recorded for the first time as a serious insect pest attacking winter legumes, particularly faba bean (Vicia faba L.) in El-Farafra oasis, western desert of Egypt. Beans, peas, alfalfa, Egyptian clover, wheat, onion and the wild weed, Meliolotus indica L. were also recorded as host plants for this species. Adults are phytophagous feeding on plant foliage and flowers and under the stress of high population, plants may suffer death. Beetles occurred from early as November until late May. During swarming and feeding, beetles secrete cantharidin fluid, a potent blister agent and long-term health threat to nearly all livestock feeding on plants hay. Field observations on insect behaviour, and crop damage were briefly explained.

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