OBJECTIVES* To confirm the identity of the species of the apple dimpling bug and develop alaboratory protocol for mass rearing of the insect.* To conduct detailed studies of the insect's life cycle, behaviour and feedingmechanisms on conventional and transgenic cotton.* To assess the pest status of apple dimpling bug, evaluate its damage to cottonplants and develop economic threshold for the management of the insect in cotton.*To study the population dynamics of apple dimpling bug including its sources,principal host plants and movement.