I’ve been hearing lately that there’s a new invasive insect called brown marmorated stink bug.
What plants does it damage, and how can I prevent or control the damage?
Yes, the brown marmorated stink bug is a recent arrival in the Pacific Northwest. Washington State University Extension has a Pest Watch fact sheet that provides details on its life cycle, contrast with similar-looking bugs in our area, and potential damage the bug causes. “BMSB,” as it is called, is well-known on the East Coast for damaging agricultural/edible crops and ornamental plants, as well as seeking refuge inside houses during cold weather (they don’t harm people, but they do emit offensive odors).
The website “Stop Brown Marmorated Stink Bug” is the main information clearinghouse on controlling this pest.It includes a list of host plants (two of the most attractive to BMSB are invasives themselves: Ailanthus altissima or Tree of Heaven, and Paulownia tomentosa or Empress Tree). Washington State University is involved in research on natural predators and control methods for this invader (as well as another recent one, Spotted Wing Drosophila). Most chemical interventions attempted so far have had limited efficacy. Research into organic controls is ongoing.
For now, get to know what the bug looks like, and if you think you see one in your garden or home, report it as a citizen-scientist using the form on the website of Stinkbug-Info.org or contact your local WSU Extension office.
So far, the only officially reported sightings in Washington State have been in Clark and Skamania counties.