Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Originally from Asia, introduced to North America and Europe. Found in agricultural fields, orchards, gardens, and urban/suburban areas. Often seeks shelter indoors in cooler months.

Polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of plants including fruits (apples, peaches, berries), vegetables (corn, beans, tomatoes), and ornamental plants. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap and fruit tissues.

Known for their aggregation behavior, especially in the fall when they seek overwintering sites, often entering homes and other structures. When disturbed or crushed, they emit a foul-smelling odor as a defensive mechanism. They are highly mobile fliers and can rapidly infest new areas.

Risks: Major agricultural pest, causing significant damage to various crops, leading to economic losses. Can be a nuisance pest in homes due to their overwintering habits and the unpleasant odor they produce. Benefits: None significant for humans, though they are a food source for some predatory insects and birds in their native range.