Pest Control  >  Stink Bugs

Stink Bugs

Appearance

Stink bugs belong to the order of true bugs called Hemiptera. They have piercing sucking mouthparts and straight antennae. Most stink bugs have a characteristic shield shape. Many are plant feeders and some are even predatory. This article focuses on the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys).

The adult brown marmorated stink bug is about 12 to 17 mm long. Like other stink bugs, its body is nearly as wide as it is long. The adult is mottled brown in color. There are lighter bands on the antennae and dark bands on the front wings.

Behavior, Diet & Habits

Like many of the other stink bugs, the brown marmorated is a pest of fruits and vegetables. It has been found feeding on apples, peaches, blackberries, tomatoes, corn, soybeans, lima beans and green peppers.

Like other stink bugs, this pest pierces the skin of the fruit in order to feed. After feeding, the insect leaves. As the fruit continues to grow, it often develops a scar that resembles the face of a cat.