Brown marmorated stink bugs in different life stages. Image credit: Gary Bernon, USDA APHIS, Bugwood.org, CC BY 3.0 US DEED. Cropped for use.
Background
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) is a notorious invasive pest that feeds on over 170 plants including fruits, vegetables, and field crops. Apples, an important crop in Minnesota, are particularly at risk. In 2010, the US Apple Association estimated that brown marmorated stink bugs caused $37 million in damages to the apple crop in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The parasitoid samurai wasp (Trissolcus japonicus) from Japan is a natural enemy of brown marmorated stink bug in its native range. The species has been confirmed in Minnesota by the state Department of Agriculture as of 2022. It is possible that the samurai wasp could be used as biocontrol against invasive brown marmorated stink bugs, however, the effects of the wasps on native species is unknown. It is not clear whether the samurai wasp’s potential benefits outweigh risks to native species.
Research questions
- What are the benefits of the samurai wasp to apple production, native species, and plant species?
- What are the risks to native insect species?
Practical implications
The information gained from this research project will enable regulators to make rational decisions about brown marmorated stink bug management, and the presence of the samurai wasp in Minnesota, that are rooted in the protection of native species and agricultural commodities in the state.
Outcomes
This project began in January 2024 and is in progress for the next several years. Please check back at a later time for updates.
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