Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)
The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is an invasive insect known for its shield-shaped body and its tendency to release a foul-smelling odor when disturbed or crushed. Originally from East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan), it has spread to many parts of North America, Europe, and South America, causing problems for both homeowners and farmers.
1. Physical Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Halyomorpha halys
- Size: About 12–17 mm (0.5–0.7 inches) long
- Color: Mottled brown and gray, with a marbled pattern on its back.
- Shape: Shield-shaped, similar to other stink bug species.
- Antennae: Have light and dark banding near the tips.
- Legs: Also have alternating light and dark bands.
- Underside: May appear white, cream, or pale brown.
2. Where Does It Live?
- Native Region: East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan).
- Invasive Regions: Found in North America, Europe, and South America, where it has become a major agricultural pest.
- Preferred Habitats:
- Farms and orchards (where they damage crops).
- Homes and buildings (seeking shelter in colder months).
- Gardens, fields, and forests.
3. Behavior and Life Cycle
- Reproduction:
- Females lay about 20-30 eggs at a time, usually on the underside of leaves.
- Eggs hatch into nymphs (immature stink bugs), which go through five growth stages before becoming adults.
- They can produce 1-2 generations per year in colder climates but up to 6 generations per year in warm areas.
- Seasonal Activity:
- Spring/Summer: Active outdoors, feeding on plants and crops.
- Fall/Winter: Moves indoors to escape the cold, gathering in homes, sheds, and buildings.
- Defense Mechanism:
- When threatened or crushed, stink bugs release a foul-smelling chemical from glands near their abdomen.
- The smell is often compared to rotting fruit or cilantro and can linger for hours.
4. Is It Dangerous?
- To Humans:
- Stink bugs do not bite or sting humans.
- However, their odor can be unpleasant and may cause mild allergic reactions in some people (such as skin irritation or sneezing).
- To Plants and Crops:
- Highly destructive pest for farmers, attacking fruits, vegetables, and crops such as:
- Apples, peaches, pears, cherries.
- Tomatoes, peppers, corn, soybeans.
- They pierce plant tissues and suck out juices, causing wilting, scarring, and deformities in fruits and vegetables.
- Highly destructive pest for farmers, attacking fruits, vegetables, and crops such as:
5. How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs?
Prevention:
Seal Entry Points: Close gaps around windows, doors, vents, and cracks in walls to prevent them from entering homes.
Use Screens: Install tight-fitting window and door screens.
Reduce Outdoor Lighting: Stink bugs are attracted to light—keeping lights off when not needed can reduce their presence.
Remove Food Sources: Keep outdoor gardens and fruit trees well-maintained to minimize stink bug infestations.
Removal Methods:
Vacuum Them Up: Use a vacuum cleaner to collect stink bugs, then dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent the smell from spreading.
DIY Soapy Water Trap:
- Fill a bucket with water and dish soap.
- Knock stink bugs into the soapy water—they will drown quickly.
Natural Repellents: - Some homeowners use garlic spray, mint spray, or neem oil to repel stink bugs.
Professional Pest Control: - If the infestation is large, consider hiring a pest control service to apply safe insecticides.
If you notice brown marmorated stink bugs in your home, don’t crush them—this will only release their unpleasant smell! Instead, remove them carefully using a vacuum, soapy water trap, or pest control methods.
During fall and winter, these insects look for warm places to hide, so sealing cracks and keeping your home well-protected is the best way to prevent an invasion. 
