Advances in the biology, ecology and control of Basilepta melanopus Lefèvre

Basilepta melanopus Lefèvre is an important pest widely distributed in the southern tea-growing regions of China. It is characterized by its high reproductive capacity, substantial destructive potential, rapid outbreak development, and the challenges associated with its control. In recent years, B. melanopus has inflicted serious damage in tea gardens, particularly in organic tea plantations, throughout South China, Southeast China, and Southwest China, posing a severe threat to the sustainable and healthy development of the tea industry in the country. To enhance our understanding and management of this important pest, in this article we reviewed the research progress on B. melanopus in recent 40 years, mainly focusing on its morphological characteristics, damage traits, distribution, occurrence patterns, and control strategies. Additionally, prominent issues in current research, prospects for the future studies and application of B. melanopus were also discussed.