Acrosternum millierei (Mulsant & Rey, 1866) is a species of shield bug in the family Pentatomidae, recognized as a significant agricultural pest, particularly for pistachio trees.
Key Facts about Acrosternum millierei:
Agricultural Impact: It is a major pest of pistachios, attacking nuts from early spring to harvest. In Iran, it is known to be a vector for Nematospora coryli, a fungus that causes pistachio nut damage.
Physiological Adaptations: These bugs are freeze-intolerant but highly adapted for overwintering. They survive cold temperatures by accumulating polyols (such as trehalose, myoinositol, sorbitol, and glycerol) and lowering their supercooling point (SCP) from a mean of −11.8 °C in summer to −17.6 °C in winter.
Habitat and Distribution: The species is found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain (Murcia, Balearic Isles, Valencia, Alicante, etc.) and Portugal. It has also been recorded in Iran, where it causes damage to pistachio orchards.
Host Plants: Beyond pistachios, A. millierei has been observed on Leucospermum species.
Description: As a pentatomid, it has a characteristic shield-shaped body and belongs to the tribe Nezarini (green stink bugs and allies).
Classification: It was originally described under the name Nezara millierei.
Defense Mechanism: Like other stink bugs, it can emit a foul-smelling odor when threatened or disturbed.
A. millierei is closely related to other green stink bugs and is a key target for pest management in nut-producing regions.
