Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys

2006 Update

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is native to Eastern Asia where it is a pest of numerous plants, including a variety of ornamental shade and fruit trees, vegetables, and legumes. It is also considered a nuisance pest because it will aggregate in homes and other dwellings as it seeks hibernation sites in the fall. BMSB was first discovered in North America in Eastern Pennsylvania in 2001. Since then, BMSB has been found in New Jersey, and most recently in Oregon.

This stink bug has a wide and varied host range. Especially vulnerable are peach, apple and soybeans, but BMSB has also been reported to attack grape, raspberry, cherry, cucurbits, fig, paulownia, and tomatoes. Adults emerge between May and June, and the females lay up to 400 eggs throughout her lifetime on the lower surfaces of leaves. Nymphs hatch within 4 or 5 days and commence feeding on leaves and stems with their sucking mouthparts. Both adults and nymphs feed on the fruit.

Feeding damage to leaves cause circular "stippled" areas, while damage on fruit appear as pits and discoloration. Plants may look unsightly and distorted because of this damage and rotting may occur.

For more information visit these sites:

Cornell University article
OR Dept. of Agriculture Pest Alert
PA Dept. of Agriculture Fact Sheet (.pdf)
Penn State Dept. of Entomology
Rutgers Cooperative Extension

If you suspect brown marmaorated stink bug on your crops, please notify the Maine Department of Agriculture (207) 287-3891.

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Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys

2006 Update

For more information visit these sites:

photos by David R. Lance, USDA-APHIS-PPQ