
Community identification
Kudzu bug
Megacopta cribraria
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera, Plataspidae
- Size
- 3.5 to 6 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found on legume crops, kudzu patches, and invading homes in autumn.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Behavior Patterns
Gathers in large swarms on exterior walls before seeking indoor shelter for winter. Releases a foul-smelling defensive odor when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
Damages agricultural legume yields and becomes an indoor nuisance, though it poses no biting risk to humans.