Backyard and Beyond

Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.

As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”

Rough Stinker

BrochymenaOne of the Brochymena genus Rough Stink Bugs. I think this may be an instar of B. quadripustulata, since it has the four spots or bumps, but the shield pattern isn’t quite like an adult’s (yet). These stink bugs are cryptically colored to blend in with bark, but they really stick out on a leaf. A true bug, meaning they are suckers, living on sap of a range of tree and shrubs. But also preying on other insect larvae and pupae, so some species are considered gardener-friendly, a natural defense.

Plus, if you smoosh ’em, you’re gonna regret it.

mthew

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2 responses to “Rough Stinker”

  1. biobabbler

    1. That’s TOTALLY cute. NICE shot.
    2. I REALLY don’t understand folks’ inclination to squish bugs. Especially if you are OUTSIDE, it makes NO sense to me.
    3. Took photos of a stink bug a while back and thought it was adorable, and many people wrote, in essence, “ew!” Mystified. I found it totally charming.

    Reply
    1. mthew

      We must admit, however, that we are in the minority in our appreciation for insects. In Japan, however, it is another story, so it’s definitely cultural not genetic.

      Reply

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