Field Identification
A striking black-and-orange stink bug specialized on mustards and other brassicas. Both adults and nymphs suck sap, causing white blotches, wilting, and seedling death.
Shield-shaped bug about 8–10 mm with bold orange-red and black pattern. Barrel-shaped black-and-white eggs in double rows on leaf undersides.
How to Deal With It
Organic Control Methods
Use row cover over spring brassicas; destroy crop residues where adults overwinter in garden debris.
Egg parasitoids such as Trissolcus and Telenomus spp. occur; preserve them by avoiding broad-spectrum sprays.
Trap crop with mustard or rape at field edge; time removal or flame when bugs aggregate.
Hand-pick into soapy water; knock adults into a bucket mornings when sluggish.
Insecticidal soap or neem on nymphs with thorough coverage; repeat every few days during outbreaks.
Let Nature Handle It
Natural Enemies
- Egg Parasitoid Wasps
- Spiders
- Birds
Threat Map