Harlequin Bug, Murgantia histrionica (Hahn) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Indigenous to Mexico and Central America, harlequin bug has dispersed north into the United States. Its appearance in Texas, USA, in 1864 coincided with the occurrence of Union troops during the American Civil War, and in parts of the South earned it the name “Sherman-bug” after the northern General Sherman, and “Lincolnite” after President Abraham Lincoln. It rapidly spread throughout the southern states, and eventually reached northern locales such as Colorado, Iowa, southern Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. It is considered to be a serious pest only in southern states, however, and is not regarded as a problem in California. It has also dispersed to the Hawaiian Islands.

Life History

Harlequin bug breeds continuously in the southern portions of its range. During mild winters all stages have been observed as far north as Virginia. In colder climates only the adults survive the winter in sheltered locations. They seek shelter in and near fields, among overwintering crop...