The Harlequin Bug ( Dindymus versicolor) of south-eastern Australia is a very different looking insect. The fluid is not as pungent or as staining as the notorious fluid produced by Bronze Orange Bugs. Research has shown that the defensive fluid is an effective deterrent against birds, but not predatory insects such as mantids. In tropical regions male Cotton Harlequin Bugs are usually red–orange with small blue-green patches, while in temperate regions males may be mostly blue-green with small red-orange patches.Ĭolour variation may also occur within a single population.Īll life stages of Cotton Harlequin Bugs exude a pungent defensive fluid when threatened. In subtropical regions the iridescent patches are present but reduced compared to females in the temperate regions, which have the largest iridescent blue-green patches. In tropical regions female Cotton Harlequin Bugs are usually entirely orange, therefore, without the small iridescent blue-green markings. Harlequin bugsalso called shield bugssuck plant sap from cabbage-family crops and other vegetables. The harlequin bug is a type of stink bug it releases a foul odor when disturbed. There is considerable colour variation between tropical and temperate regions. Harlequin bugs are shield- shaped, have black-and-orange or black-and-red triangles on the back, and are about -inch long. Males are a mix of metallic green-blue and orange-red.įirst instar nymphs emerge with bright red abdomens and metallic blue thoraxes, and change to a predominantly metallic blue pattern with red markings in later instars. Females are larger than males and female colouring is mostly orange with small iridescent blue-green patches of varying size. These bugs exude a defensive liquid when disturbed so it is best to wear gloves and wear safety glasses when spraying.Īn alternative approach is to live with them and enjoy their dazzling colours.Īdult Cotton Harlequin Bugs are brightly coloured insects up to 15–20mm long with a pronounced convex shape, therefore, humped. It’s suitable for use on ornamental plants and a small number of vegetables, including broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers and tomatoes. If bug numbers increase and treatment is necessary, spray pests with Yates Baythroid Advanced Insect Killer for Gardens. It is important to know that minor infestations of this bug will not seriously damage your plants, if those plants are well cared for.

If you live in an area where Cotton Harlequin Bugs occur, there is nothing you can do to prevent them entering your garden. Harlequin bug adults and nymphs use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to withdraw plant fluids, causing plants to wilt, turn brown and possibly die.

Adults are brightly colored in black and red-orange with distinct yellow markings. For this to work you will need to know what Cotton Harlequin Bugs look like (see Description), and prevent any confusion with other insects. Harlequin bug adults are 10 mm long, robust and shield-shaped. If the bugs bother, you just pick them off while you are out in the garden watering your plants. Cotton Harlequin Bug is a minor pest of some garden plants in the family Malvaceae.

Harlequin bug pinbox