Saw this creature on my dwarf beans this morning. I think I have seen them before but not sure if they are a pest. Anyone know? Friend or foe? ( photo / image / picture from Gardengirl's Garden )
It looks like it may be a shield bug. They are bad if they overpopulate. they suck on plants. I have brown ones here.
Mmmm.....not too sure that it is a shield bug as the shape is wrong and it seems to have a different texture to it than shields bugs have. I don't see any 'split' on its back so I take it that this isn't a flying bug - am I right? Will keep looking for you GardenGirl and see what I can come up with. Just a few more books to go.
The nearest to your bug that I can find is that it's some sort of shield bug Pat. I may, of course, be totally wrong but if it is it shouldn't do too much damage. They only become pests if there are a great number of them on your plants.
It looks like what we call over here the "Groene stinkwants" (Palomena prasina). If you disturb this beetle, it emits a pungent odor. I don't like the smell.
I'm glad you agree that it's a shield bug Sjoerd as I just wasn't too sure of my ID as there are so many varieties. :-D
You are so right, Eileen--there are many varieties, and many variations of this particular one (in terms of the "shield"). I do not see many of this sore bug normally; however, this year I have seen more than ever before.
Thanks for the replies. I will keep a look out that there are no more on my beans. They are doing well at the moment so don't want any damage done. I presume you just have to remove and dispose of like the lily beetles?
Yes I would think so Pat - it's what I would do anyway. Maybe best to do it with some kind of protective covering for your hands though as they smell pretty rancid when you squish them.
