This insect is an invasive from Japan, Korea and China. It was first reported in Pennsylvania in 1998 and since that time they have been found in other eastern states and they are spreading.
The Brown Marmorated Stick Bug can be found in the fall looking for a warm place (like your house) to stay for the winter. They will not damage your home, but they are a nuisance in the house because when disturbed they release a pungent chemical odor that smells like "cilantro" and they also fly around inside your home. Where this insect is a problem is what they do to our fruit and vegetable crops. They damage produce by feeding on a variety of plants like fruit crops, corn, soybeans, select vegetables and ornamental plants. Their feeding on fruits and vegetables produces small spots, misshapen fruit and makes the product unmarketable.
If you think you have seen this insect, you need to identify it correctly, because there are many other types of stink bugs or insects that look similar to the BMSB. Look for two light colored bands on the antennae (see top photo). It has a marbled gray and brown top and a lighter color on the underside (see bottom photo). The abdomen on the BMSB extends past the wings and you will see what looks like light colored triangles on the sides of the insect. The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug has one small tooth along the thorax that is directly behind the eye area.
How do you control them? I would suggest that you contact your County Extension Agent on what would work the best for you if you are a farmer with crops or a homeowner being invaded with them. I only have a few and a bucket of soapy water will be my choice at this time.
Happy Gardening!
Debbie
If you are a garden writer and would like to use my photos of this insect for writing an article, please feel free to use them.
I took both photos and we can all help to inform others about the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. Please contact me if you would like to use the photos at dcgardensinbloom@aol.com.