What is this bug
Location: Akron, Ohio
September 26, 2010 8:47 pm
Any idea what this vibrant orange bug is. I was amazed at the different stages of life on one pod.
Signature: Becki Caputo
Hi Becki,
There are two common species of Seed Bugs in the family Lygaeidae that feed upon the juices from the seeds of milkweed, and we believe your immature nymphs are Large Milkweed Bugs, Oncopeltus fasciatus based on comparing images of both species on BugGuide. Large Milkweed Bugs often form aggregations of numerous individuals while feeding, and you image shows two immature stages. Adults have fully developed wings and they are able to fly.
we have the same bugs in our garden. Are they harmful to plants??
Milkweed Bugs are considered a benign species.