Stink bugs, those shield-shaped insects known for their unpleasant odor when disturbed, are a common sight in gardens, fields, and even homes. Belonging to the Pentatomidae family, these bugs exhibit diverse feeding habits, playing various roles in the ecosystem. Understanding what stink bugs eat is crucial for gardeners and homeowners alike to manage these insects effectively.
Most stink bug species are herbivores, meaning they primarily feed on plants. These plant-feeding stink bugs have a wide range of hosts, often shifting their diet throughout their life cycle. In spring, the first generation nymphs may start by feeding on weeds and grasses before moving onto more cultivated plants as they mature into adults.
What specific plants do stink bugs target? Their menu is quite extensive and includes:
- Fruits: Apples, peaches, berries (like raspberries and blackberries), pears, and figs are all susceptible to stink bug feeding. They pierce the skin and inject saliva, leading to scarred and deformed fruits, sometimes called “cat-facing.”
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn, and squash are common vegetable crops that stink bugs will feed on.
- Field Crops: Soybeans, cotton, sorghum, and pecans are also on their list, making them significant agricultural pests.
- Ornamental Plants: Even the plants around your house aren’t safe. Stink bugs are known to feed on various ornamental plants in residential landscapes.
However, not all stink bugs are plant pests. Some species are predatory stink bugs, acting as beneficial insects in gardens and fields. These predatory stink bugs are carnivores and feed on other insects, including many common garden pests. Their prey includes:
- Velvet bean caterpillars
- Root weevils
- Colorado potato beetles
- Southern green stink bugs (yes, they sometimes eat other stink bugs!)
- And other soft-bodied insects and larvae.
These predatory stink bugs are beneficial because they help control populations of harmful insects that can damage plants. Recognizing the difference between plant-feeding and predatory stink bugs can be helpful in your garden management strategies.
In conclusion, what stink bugs eat depends heavily on the species. While many are plant-feeding pests that can damage crops and gardens, a valuable subset are predatory, contributing to natural pest control. Understanding their diverse diets is the first step in coexisting with these odorous insects.
