What I look like: I am a type of 'True Bug' and go through three stages of development: egg, young adult and adult. Harlequin bugs–also called shield bugs–suck plant sap … The main reason Harlequin ladybirds pose a threat to our native ladybirds is that they have such voracious appetites that they easily out-compete native ladybirds for food. Eggs: Eggs of the harlequin bug resemble tiny white kegs standing on end in a double row (Figure 1). What I eat: I drink the juices from fruits and plants with my piercing mouth parts. It feeds mostly on young shoots, piercing the stems and sucking the sugar-rich juices intended for shoot growth. control harlequin bugs organically They're attracted to plants in the mallow family - so control any weeds like the common mallow ( Malva parviflora ) to reduce the bugs' breeding grounds I can grow up to 3 inches in length. Approximately 12 eggs are laid together in one batch, usually on … Harlequin bugs ( Murgantia histrionica ) are 3/8 inch-long, shiny stinkbugs and significant pests of crucifers like cabbage , broccoli and mustard , feeding greedily on the nutritious juices inside the leaves of these plants. Harlequin bugs are shield- shaped, have black-and-orange or black-and-red triangles on the back, and are about ¼-inch long. The harlequin bug is a type of stink bug; it releases a foul odor when disturbed.
My Home: I am native to the Americas and found in warm climates, primarily Central and South America. Although beautiful, this bug is treacherous, making harlequin bug control a vital part of vegetable garden management. Harlequin bugs pass the winter as adults (commonly referred to as stink bugs) and true hibernation is doubtful. Active during the day, but can be found around lights at night.. What I eat: I feed on the sap from trees. Find out about the Harlequin ladybird in our bug directory for more fast facts about this species.