Battling USDA's top-ranked invasive insect

Wikipedia.org
 credit: David R. Lance, USDA APHIS

The brown marmorated stink bug causes problems not only farmers and gardeners, but can be a problem for anyone who lives in a building at some point...so...everyone. This invader from Asia was accidentally introduced to the United States, and was first discovered on US soil in 1988. Theys aggregate to overwinter, and can find their way into homes. They don't bite, or spread disease, but they do leave behind a foul odor when disturbed. In addition to being a house pest they cause severe economic damage to fruit and vegetable crops.

Being ranked as the top "invasive insect of interest" by the USDA has lead to a large mass of research. Scientists from a laboratory in Beltsville, WI have identified an "aggregation pheromone" which could be used to trap the bugs and curb their population growth. The pheromone is released by the male bugs as they feed and it attracts adults and nymphs of both sexes. Other molecular research is being conducted as well to find out which genes could be targeted to control the pest.

Ohio State University also maintains a data collection program with a map where the stink bug has been detected in Ohio: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Data

OSU FACT SHEET

Sources:
Combating USDA's Top-ranked insect
Penn State fact sheet
UofMaryland fact sheet