Harlequin Bug

*Murgantia histrionica*

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

-5 Pest

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

SoutheastSouthwestMidwestWestNortheast

Habitat Preferences

gardensweedy areas

Taxonomic Group

Bug

Order

Hemiptera

Family

Pentatomidae

Lifecycle

The Harlequin Bug undergoes incomplete metamorphosis, with a life cycle that completes in 50 to 80 days and consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The barrel-shaped eggs are laid in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Nymphs, which resemble adults but lack fully developed wings, go through five instars before reaching adulthood. There are two to three generations per year.

Overwintering Strategy

Adults overwinter in sheltered locations in or near gardens, including winter crops and organic debris.

Native Range

Central America

Attracted By

cabbagebroccolicauliflowerkalecollard greensmustardturnipradishcleomeasparagusbeansbeetscottoneggplantfruit treesokrapepperssunflowerstomatoeswild mustardshepherd’s pursepigweedlambsquarter

Repelled By

chamomilecelerybasilgarlicmintrosemarysage

Organic Control Methods

Organic control of harlequin bugs involves several methods. Handpicking and crushing eggs, nymphs, and adults is effective for small infestations. Floating row covers can be used to exclude the pest from crops. For larger infestations, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be sprayed on nymphs. At the end of the season, it is important to clean up the garden and remove all crop debris to eliminate overwintering sites for adult bugs.

Companion Planting

Cleome (spider plant) can be grown as a trap crop as harlequin bugs prefer it. Infested plants can be removed or sprayed. Strong-scented plants like chamomile, celery, basil, garlic, mint, rosemary, and sage can be inter-planted to mask the scent of host plants.