Kudzu Bug vs. Stink Bug: Unraveling Key Differences & Tips for Control

The kudzu bug and the stink bug are two distinct pests that may pester homeowners and gardeners alike. Both bugs come from Asia, but they differ in their invasion history and the damage they cause to plants and agriculture in the United States.

The kudzu bug, also known as Megacopta cribraria, bean plataspid, or globular stink bug, was first discovered in Georgia in 2009, likely having hitchhiked on a commercial airplane source. Meanwhile, the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is another invasive pest that arrived in the US in the 1990s and was first spotted in North Carolina in 2009 source.

While both bugs are known to have a distinct odor, they differ in their choice of plants to feed on. Kudzu bugs are notorious for attacking kudzu vines, soybean crops, and wisteria source, while brown marmorated stink bugs are more generalist feeders and pests of various crops and fruit trees. In the paragraphs to come, we will explore their similarities and differences further, helping you identify and manage these pesky insects in your garden or home.

Kudzu Bug and Stink Bug Identification

Physical Characteristics

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs have some differences in physical appearance. Kudzu bugs are:

• Olive green in color
• Around 4-6mm in length
• Oval-shaped body

Meanwhile, brown marmorated stink bugs (BMSB):

• Have grayish-brown coloring
• Measure 12-17mm long
• Feature an almost shield-like shape

Both bugs possess distinctive antennae.

Behavior Patterns

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs exhibit specific behaviors. Kudzu bugs:

• Prefer to feed on plants such as kudzu vine, soybean, and wisteria
• Originate from Asia, were first discovered in the US in Georgia in 2009

On the other hand, stink bugs:

• Are also pests to fruit and vegetable crops
• Have a similar point of origin, with BMSB being introduced from Asia in the 1990s
• Arrived in North Carolina in 2009 and have since spread throughout the state

Origins and Distribution

Kudzu Bugs

Kudzu bugs (Megacopta cribraria) are native to Asia and were first introduced to the United States in 2009, likely arriving in Georgia on an inbound aircraft¹. Since then, they have spread throughout several states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida².

• Feeds on kudzu plants and soybean crops
• Unintentionally introduced to the US

Stink Bugs

Stink bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) are more widely distributed and have multiple species found in various regions in Asia and the United States³. Some notable species in the US include the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys), which was first detected in Pennsylvania, and the green stink bug (Chinavia hilaris), native to the Southeastern United States⁴.

• Multiple species with varying distribution
• Presence in both Asia and the United States

Comparison Table:

Impact on Agriculture

Affected Crops

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs have different feeding habits and affect different types of crops. Kudzu bugs are primarily attracted to legumes, such as:

• Kudzu vines
• Soybeans
• Other bean species
• Wisteria
• Some vetches¹

On the other hand, brown marmorated stink bugs cause damage to a wider range of crops, including:

• Fruit crops like apples, peaches, and cherries
• Vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, and sweet corn
• Ornamental plants
• Legumes like green beans and soybeans²

Yield Loss

Both bugs can cause significant yield losses in the affected crops. Kudzu bugs, for instance, can cause up to 50% yield loss in soybean crops³. Stink bugs damage fruits, vegetables, and legumes by piercing their mouthparts into the plant, causing deformation, discoloration, and in some cases, making the produce unmarketable⁴.

Control Methods

Control methods for kudzu bugs and stink bugs differ. For kudzu bugs, a combined management program, including mechanical, chemical, and biological control, can be more effective than individual methods⁵. In contrast, control methods for stink bugs often involve:

• Monitoring and timely application of insecticides as necessary
• Encouraging natural predators like lady beetles and lacewings
• Mechanical exclusion, such as using fine mesh screens to protect small areas⁶

Comparison table

Lifecycle and Reproduction

Eggs

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs both lay eggs on plant surfaces. Kudzu bug eggs are barrel-shaped and often found in clusters on leaves and stems¹. Stink bug eggs are typically round, and found on the underside of leaves².

Nymphs

• Kudzu bug nymphs are initially bright green, turning brown as they mature³
• Stink bug nymphs have a similar body shape to adults but are typically smaller and lack wings⁴

Kudzu bug nymphs undergo five instars before reaching adulthood⁵. Stink bug nymphs also pass through five instar stages⁶.

Adults

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs both have a shield-like shape. Adult kudzu bugs are brown and globular⁷, while stink bugs can be green, brown, or other colors depending on the species⁸.

Comparison Table

Treatment and Prevention Measures

Insecticides and Pesticides

• Bifenthrin: A common pyrethroid insecticide used to combat both kudzu and stink bugs, targeting their nervous system.Pros:
  • Effective at controlling bug populations
  • Low mammalian toxicity

  Cons:

  • Harmful to beneficial insects
  • Potential environmental impact
• Application: Apply insecticides to affected surfaces and surrounding areas, focusing on points of entry.Example: Spray bifenthrin evenly on plants infested by kudzu bugs or stink bugs.

Physical Control Methods

• Screens: Install fine mesh screens on windows, doors, and vents to prevent bug entry.Pros:
  • Non-chemical method
  • Long-lasting prevention

  Cons:

  • Initial installation cost
  • Regular maintenance
• Exterminator: Hire a pest control professional to assess the situation and recommend treatments.

Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators can help control bug populations.

• Kudzu bug predator: The samurai wasp is an example of a predator that targets the kudzu bug.
• Stink bug predator: Spiders and birds are some natural predators of stink bugs.

Incorporating physical control methods, using targeted insecticides, and introducing natural predators can help manage kudzu bug and stink bug populations effectively.

Overwintering and Seasonal Behavior

Seeking Warm Shelter

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs are known to seek warm places during colder months for overwintering. These bugs often find shelter in cracks and crevices of homes or other structures. Kudzu bugs, for instance, may be found in wisteria plants or other vegetation nearby.

Stink bugs prefer to overwinter in large, dry, dead trees having a circumference of more than 23 inches.

Congregating

During warmer seasons, both kudzu bugs and stink bugs tend to congregate in areas where their host plants are abundant. Kudzu bugs are known to flock to kudzu, wisteria, and soybeans, while stink bugs are often found on fruit trees or vegetable crops.

Migration

Kudzu bugs spread rapidly from their initial introduction in Georgia. They were found in North and South Carolina within a couple of years.

Stink bugs, on the other hand, have a more established presence across the United States, and their migration is more seasonal, moving between their overwintering sites and host plants.

Comparison table: Kudzu Bug vs. Stink Bug

In conclusion, both kudzu bugs and stink bugs seek warmth and shelter during the colder months, congregate near their host plants, and exhibit different migration patterns. Identifying and understanding their behaviors can help with their management and control.

Invasive Species and Impact on Native Ecosystems

Kudzu Vines and Kudzu Bugs

Kudzu vines are known for their rapid growth and ability to smother native plants, trees, and structures in invaded areas. Kudzu bugs (Megacopta cribraria), on the other hand, are an invasive insect species that feed on kudzu vines as well as other legumes, including soybeans, which can cause severe economic damage.

Some notable traits of kudzu vines:

• Fast-growing over other plants and structures
• Shade out native plants, reducing biodiversity
• Girdle trees and smother them

Features of kudzu bugs:

• Short, oblong shape and olive-green with brown speckles
• Pierce and suck plant juices, causing damage
• Accidentally introduced to the US

Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

Brown marmorated stink bugs (Halyomorpha halys) are another invasive insect species that also cause significant agricultural damage by feeding on a wide variety of plants. These stink bugs differ from kudzu bugs in appearance and feeding habits.

Characteristics of brown marmorated stink bugs:

• Shield-shaped, brown, and speckled body
• Feed on a wide range of host plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals
• Produce an unpleasant odor when disturbed

Impact on Home Gardens and Structures

Garden Vegetables and Pests

Kudzu bugs and stink bugs are both known to cause damage to garden vegetables and plants. However, the brown marmorated stink bug is more widespread, attacking nearly 170 different plants, including ornamental plants, peaches, apples, and tomatoes.

On the other hand, kudzu bugs are mainly a problem for legume crops like soybeans and green beans in the southeastern U.S. As predators, some stink bugs can be beneficial, as they prey on garden pests like caterpillars and beetles.

Examples of predatory stink bugs include:

• Spined soldier bug
• Two-spotted stink bug

Comparing common garden pests:

Preventing Home Infestations

To prevent kudzu bugs and stink bugs from entering your home, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the perimeter of your home: Look for gaps, cracks, and crevices in walls and foundations, especially near doors and windows.
2. Seal cracks and gaps: Use caulk or other sealants to close up any gaps where bugs can enter.
3. Maintain your garden: Remove fallen fruit and debris, as they attract pests. Consider introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs to help control pest populations.

Remember, it is important not to rely solely on pesticides, as they can harm beneficial insects. Instead, use a combination of methods to prevent infestations and protect your garden and home structures.