The stink bugs earned their name because they discharge an
unpleasant odor to discourage predators. They also emit this odor when they get
crushed. Stink bugs were originally found in eastern parts of Asia and found in
the US for the first time in the late 1990s. There are an estimated 900 genera
included in the main family of these stink bugs. They are from the Pentatomidea
family, which is regarded as its super family. This again belongs to the
sub-family of Heteroptera, which is a part of the Helipterum order in the world
of insects. Today these stink bugs are found all over the world. Their usual habitats
are fields, meadows, and gardens. You can find 250 species of stink bugs in
North America alone. In addition to this, there are approximately 4700 species existing
worldwide.
Effect
of Stink Bugs on Gardeners
Because of their diet, these stink bugs are both, harmful
and beneficial to plants and trees. Stink bugs feed on various insects, fruits
and plants. Like most members of the Pentatomide family, they suck sap from the
fruity areas of the plants. Therefore, they can cause considerable damage to
the plants. Some species are even harmful to the foliage. In addition to these
types, some are predators that eat other pests, like caterpillars, making
themselves useful also.
Availability
through the Year
These stink bugs are normally seen in gardens all
throughout the year. They are most prominent during spring and summer when
plants and trees are coming into full bloom. Green species of stink bugs create
a single generation every year and the dusky and brown ones create 2
generations every year.
Stink
Bugs Adaptations
One of the unique adaptations of these stink bugs is
clearly given away by the name. The Pentatomide family, as described earlier,
creates an evil smelling compound used for discouraging any predators. They
have thoracic glands that produce the horrible odor. It is used both for
attracting mates and to communicate impending danger to nearby stink bugs. This
odor is also capable of suppressing harmful microorganisms, which may be a threat
to the stink bugs.
How
they Reproduce
Females of the various stink bugs species lay eggs around
the bottom of branches and stems during summers. Here the larvae emerge. Then,
after going through the pupae stage, they become adult stink bugs, having
wings. Eggs may be laid from the middle of the spring through to the middle of
the winter, depending on the surrounding temperature. These eggs hatch within 5
days to 3 weeks to begin the cycle of creating new stink bugs.
Solution
to the Problem
You need to seal all the cracks in your house in order to
keep the stink bugs away. You should also replace any damaged screens on
windows and doors. If you find a stink bug in the house despite these
precautions, pick it up with a vacuum cleaner and throw away the bag containing
the bugs. If you find these bugs outside your house, just spray the affected
area with an approved insecticide. You can also just pick up the stink bugs
with your hands, especially in mornings, when they are at their slowest.
