Black Kudzu Bug: All You Need to Know in a Quick Guide

The black kudzu bug is a small insect measuring 4 to 6 mm in length, characterized by an olive-green color with brown speckles. Native to Asia, it was accidentally introduced to the United States and is now established as a severe economic pest affecting soybeans in several states source.

As a member of the “true bugs” family, kudzu bugs have piercing-sucking mouthparts, allowing them to feed on a variety of legumes such as soybeans, other bean species, wisteria, and some vetches source. Being an invasive species, it threatens native ecosystems and natural resources, making it important to control its population source.

Black Kudzu Bug Basics

Megacopta Cribraria

The Black Kudzu Bug, scientifically known as Megacopta Cribraria, is a pest originated from Asia. It belongs to the Heteroptera suborder of Hemiptera and the Plataspidae family, also known as Old World Bugs.

Appearance and Biology

The Kudzu Bug’s appearance is quite distinct. They are:

• 4 to 6 mm long
• Oblong in shape
• Olive-green with brown speckles

Characteristics:

• True bugs with piercing-sucking mouthparts
• Feed on a wide variety of legumes
• Go through a nymph stage

Origin and Distribution

The Kudzu Bug was introduced to the United States in 2009, and has since rapidly spread across the southeastern U.S, including:

• North Carolina
• Florida
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Alabama
• Tennessee

As the name suggests, Kudzu Bugs feed on kudzu vines, but they are also a severe economic pest of soybeans, causing potential yield loss.

Host Plants and Damage

Kudzu and Legumes

Kudzu bugs (Megacopta cribraria) are small, olive-green insects, approximately 4-6mm long. They primarily feed on plants in the legume family, with kudzu being one of their favorite hosts. Besides kudzu, these pests also target other legumes such as beans, peas, and wisteria¹. They have piercing-sucking mouthparts that remove nutrients from host plants, potentially harming the plants in the process.

Soybean Impact

Soybeans are a major crop affected by kudzu bugs. These insects can cause significant yield losses in soybean production². They were first introduced to the US in 2009, and since then they’ve spread across many North Carolina counties, negatively impacting agricultural sectors³.

Other Susceptible Plants

In addition to kudzu and other legumes, kudzu bugs have also been observed feeding on:

• Wisteria
• Peanuts
• Butter beans
• Field peas
• Green beans⁴

While these insects are considered agricultural pests and can harm plant health, it’s important for gardeners to be aware of beneficial insects in their vicinity, such as ladybugs. These beneficial insects can help control kudzu bug populations and protect crops from damage⁵.

Life Cycle and Behavior

Reproduction and Overwintering

The kudzu bug, also known as the stink bug, has a relatively short life cycle. Adult females lay eggs on kudzu stems, leaves or soybean plants. These eggs hatch into small, hairy, green-colored nymphs that develop into adults in around 5-8 weeks. Kudzu bugs overwinter as adults in tree bark crevices, leaf litter, or other sheltered areas. They may also enter homes in search of protected spaces for overwintering.

Pros of Overwintering:

• Ensures survival of adult kudzu bugs during harsh weather conditions
• Allows the population to regenerate in the following seasons

Cons of Overwintering:

• Can become a nuisance pest for homeowners as they congregate in large clusters indoors

Feeding Habits

Kudzu bugs are considered a true bug, and possess piercing-sucking mouthparts. They feed on various legumes, but primarily target kudzu plants and soybeans. Kudzu bugs also feed on wisteria plants and other bean species.

Impact on Agriculture:

• May cause significant damage to soybean crops
• Can lead to economic losses for farmers

Congregation and Home Invasion

During the fall season, adult kudzu bugs congregate in large clusters on the sides of buildings or other structures. They are attracted to light colors, which is why they are often found on white walls or siding. To prevent home invasions, homeowners should seal gaps and cracks, and regular yard maintenance can help reduce kudzu bug populations in the surrounding area. If needed, a vacuum can be used to remove them from indoor spaces.

Comparison: Kudzu Bug vs. Lady Beetle

Key Characteristics of Kudzu Bugs:

• Small, oblong shape
• Olive-green color with brown speckles
• Piercing-sucking mouthparts
• Congregate in large clusters
• Considered a nuisance pest due to home invasions and damage to soybean crops

Kudzu Bug Control Methods

Chemical Control

Chemical control methods are effective in managing kudzu bug populations. Commonly used insecticides include bifenthrin and permethrin. Be sure to:

• Wear gloves when applying, as insecticides may cause skin irritation
• Avoid using on beneficial insects, as pyrethroids may be harmful

Considerations:

• Pros: Effective in reducing kudzu bug populations
• Cons: Potential harm to beneficial insects, skin irritation risk

Biological Control

Researchers are exploring the use of natural predators, like the Japanese kudzu bug, and parasitic wasps that prey on kudzu bug eggs. For example, a study at Clemson University found promising results with a specific type of parasitic wasp.

Considerations:

• Pros: Environmentally friendly and sustainable
• Cons: Still under investigation, may take time to be widely available

Physical and Cultural Control

Physical control methods include removing and disposing of kudzu bugs using:

• Water: Flush the bugs from plants with a strong spray of water
• Soapy water: Collect them in a vat of soapy water to drown

Cultural control involves managing the spread of kudzu, the primary host plant for kudzu bugs. This helps limit their food source and reduce population growth. Kudzu bug infestations are common in the southeastern U.S., including states like North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, Virginia, Alabama, and Tennessee.

Considerations:

• Pros: Cost-effective, environmentally friendly
• Cons: Time consuming, labor-intensive

Bug Control Recommendation Tool

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Economic and Environmental Impact

Agricultural Losses

Kudzu bugs, also known as lablab bugs, are a type of stink bug that attacks legume crops. They have become a significant economic pest in the Southeastern United States, particularly in Georgia. Crops affected by kudzu bugs include:

• Soybean
• Edamame
• Other legumes

These pests can cause substantial damage, reducing crop yields and leading to financial losses for farmers.

Invasive Species Challenges

Kudzu bugs originate from China and were first found in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2009. They are now considered an invasive species in the US, as they have spread to numerous states. They feast not only on kudzu (a vine known as the “vine that ate the south”), but also on various legumes and even other types of plants. In turn, this negatively affects the ecosystem, disrupting native plant populations and local biodiversity.

Future Research and Education

Due to the significant economic and ecological damage caused by kudzu bugs, researchers are currently studying ways to manage, control, and eradicate these pests. A study by USDA ARS showed that combined management programs can control kudzu more efficiently than individual methods. Future research and education efforts should focus on:

• Developing more effective pest management strategies
• Increasing awareness among farmers and the public about kudzu bugs
• Educating on preventive measures to inhibit the spread of kudzu bugs to new areas

By addressing these key areas, we can better protect natural resources while minimizing the economic losses caused by kudzu bugs.