Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Originally from East Asia (China, Japan, Korea). Introduced to North America and Europe, where it is often found in agricultural fields, orchards, gardens, and can invade homes and other structures looking for overwintering sites.

A polyphagous feeder, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of plants. It uses its piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, causing significant damage.

Known for aggregating in large numbers on buildings and homes in the fall to find shelter for the winter. They are attracted to light and can emit a strong, unpleasant odor when disturbed or crushed. They are active during warmer months, mating and laying eggs on the undersides of leaves.

Risks: A significant agricultural pest, causing economic damage to various crops, including apples, peaches, corn, soybeans, and tomatoes. They are also a nuisance pest when they invade homes. Benefits: No known significant benefits in introduced regions; however, in their native range, they might be part of the food web for some predators and parasites that help regulate their populations.