Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Natural Habitat

Originally from East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan), it has been introduced to North America and Europe. It inhabits agricultural fields, orchards, gardens, and urban/suburban environments. During colder months, it seeks shelter in human structures (homes, barns, sheds) to overwinter.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of plants. It uses its piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on fruits, vegetables, field crops, and ornamental plants. Preferred hosts include apples, peaches, corn, soybeans, tomatoes, and peppers.

Behavior Patterns

Known for emitting a strong, unpleasant odor when disturbed or crushed, which is a defense mechanism. They are attracted to lights at night and often aggregate on the sides of buildings in the fall as they look for overwintering sites. They do not sting or bite humans, but their large numbers can be a nuisance.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered a significant agricultural pest due to its extensive feeding damage on numerous crops, leading to economic losses. Its presence as an overwintering pest in homes can be a nuisance, though it does not cause structural damage or transmit diseases. Benefits: No significant ecological benefits have been identified in the regions where it is an invasive species; primarily viewed as a pest.

Identified on: 9/25/2025