Community identification
Kudzu Bug
Megacopta cribraria
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera, Family Plataspidae
- Size
- 3.5 to 6 millimeters long
Natural Habitat
Found on legume crops, kudzu patches, and invading homes in large numbers during autumn.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds exclusively on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts, specifically targeting leguminous plants.
Behavior Patterns
Gathers in massive aggregations on building exteriors before overwintering indoors. Releases a foul-smelling, staining defensive fluid when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
Acts as a major agricultural pest for soybeans and invades homes as a nuisance, though it has no harmful bite.