HARLEQUIN BUG

COMMON NAME: Harlequin Bug, Calico Bug, Painted Stink Bug.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Family - Pentatomidae, Species - Murgantia histronica

DESCRIPTION: ADULTS -1/4 to 1/2 inch shield-shaped insects. Black with red or orange markings. Large triangle shape on the back.

NYMPH - Smaller, wingless versions of the adult. Shiny red and black.

EGGS - Two rows of 12 or more black and white barrel-shaped eggs are attached to the undersurface of foliage.

LIFE CYCLE: Adults lay eggs in spring, nymphs are active all summer. Three or more generations possible with adults overwintering in plant debris.

HOST PLANTS: Beans, Beets, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Citrus, Collards, Grapes, Kale, Potatoes, Radish, Squash and Sunflowers and Turnips.

TIME OF YEAR: Approximate February thru December. (Can be active ANY warm day in winter!)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: The insects themselves or yellow and white blotches on plants.

PROBLEMS AND DAMAGE: Foliage damage can weaken plants and make them susceptible to disease or other insect damage. Severe infestations can kill the plant. The sharp mouthparts of this insect can cause injury if handled. These bugs STINK when disturbed or killed.

CULTURAL CONTROLS: Clean up garden debris and weeds.

COMPANION PLANTING AND REPELLENTS: None reported.

TRAP PLANTS: Same as host plants, perhaps planted earlier in a different area.

MECHANICAL CONTROLS: Hand pick (carefully, with gloves) and agricultural fleece.

NATURAL CONTROLS: None known. Even the birds avoid them because of the smell.

BIOLOGICAL INSECTICIDES: Sabadilla, Pyrethrin, Insecticidal soaps, or Nicotine.

CHEMICAI.CONTROLS: Call the Cooperative Extension Office for current recommendations. Use carefully. Follow directions EXACTLY.