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Identification
Like most insects, with the exception of true flies, stink bugs have two sets of wings. The family Pentatomatidae derives its name from the pentagonal shape of the body. Unlike beetles, stink bugs do not possess hard, shell-like forewings. These insects can be easily identified by the X-shape of their bodies formed by a large triangular scutellum, leathery front wings and membranous hind-wings. They have small heads which are usually green or brown.
Habitat
Stink bugs feed on plants and shrubbery. They are most commonly found in areas of heavy growth. Very few species are predaceous. They can be found all over the world in meadows, yards and fields, as well as farming areas. They commonly infest cabbage and cotton plants.
Life Cycle
Female stink bugs lay egg clusters on the underside of leaves and stems, usually in late spring or early summer. Stink bug nymphs look similar to adults, but their bodies lack the pentagon shape due to the absence of wings that characterizes an insect as immature. The nymphs undergo four to five molts before reaching maturity. This metamorphosis takes about five weeks. Peak population sizes occur in late September to early October. It is during these months that stink bugs may become agricultural pests. Adults are sometimes dormant in the winter, overwintering in logs, leaf litter or other similar habitats where they are unlikely to be disturbed.
Pests
Since most species of stink bug are herbivores, they are often crop pests on cabbage, cotton, beans, squash or melons. They can damage seeds while feeding and sometimes spread the organism responsible for yeast-spot disease. While most damage is cosmetic, crop yield can be affected if the insect is found in large numbers. The most common pest species are the brown marmorated, harlequin and green stink bug.
Control
The first step in stink bug control is trapping and monitoring the insects in order to determine how much damage the insects are likely to inflict. If the insects are not likely to decrease crop yield, pesticides are generally not used. Organic control can be achieved by introducing insects that prey on stink bug eggs and nymphs. As a last resort, there are numerous pesticides that can be used to control stink bug populations. These are used sparingly, because of concerns about the possible adverse ecological and health effects of the chemicals.