Photographer:

R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company

Adult(s)

Description:

Stink bugs [several species including green, Acrosternum hilare (Say); southern green, Nezara viridula (Linnaeus), and brown, Euschistus servus (Say)] are green or gray-brown, shield shaped bugs slightly over 1/2 inch long when full grown. Young (nymphs) are similar to adults but are smaller and lack wings. Their beak-like mouthparts are used to remove plant sap. A salivary secretion, which is injected as the insect feeds, produces a rapid wilting of the leaf or stem. The leaf usually resumes its normal shape and is not permanently damaged. Scalded areas may develop on injured leaves during hot weather. Growers are likely to encounter injury symptoms and not see the insects. Damage is usually limited to scattered plants, often in border rows. Some stink bugs are beneficial insects. They resemble plant-feeding stink bugs but can be identified by the presence of a distinct spine on each "shoulder".

Field

Host:

burley tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum (burley type) L.)