PHOTO: Courtesy of David R. Lance USDA APHIS PPQ
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Brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys
IDENTIFICATION — The brown marmorated stink bug, or BMSB, is about 1/2 in. long, shield-shaped and mottled brown. And the last two segments of the antennae have an alternating light and dark brown banding. Adult females lay clusters of 20 to 30 light green eggs on the undersides of leaves from June to August.
DAMAGE — This pest feeds on more than 70 species of ornamental plants, as well as soybeans and the fruit of many trees. And when cold weather arrives, masses of BMSB come knocking at your door. Though not harmful to people, this bug lives up to its name by emitting an unpleasant odor when disturbed.
CONTROL — It’s recently found its way to North America from Asia. First discovered in Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 2001, the extent of its range isn’t known. If you see one, contact your local extension agency or go to www.csrees.usda.gov/nea/pest/pdfs/stinkbugpest_alert.pdf to learn more. To control BMSB use an insecticide containing bifenthrin or cyfluthrin, such as Baythroid® or Aztec®, and follow label directions.
