Can you detect that scent? Wonderopolis is currently infested with tiny brown insects. Can you assist us in eliminating them? But be cautious, as they emit an unpleasant odor. What are we referring to? Stink bugs, of course!
Have you ever encountered a stink bug before? They belong to the insect family Pentatomidae. The most prevalent species is called Halyomorpha halys, or the brown marmorated stink bug. The term “marmorated” signifies that these bugs often have streaks resembling marble. As the name suggests, the bugs are typically brown, but they may also have white, black, gray, or blue markings.
If you aren’t actively searching for stink bugs, you might overlook them! They are quite small, measuring only about half an inch in length. They also possess a unique shape, resembling small shields, which makes them easily recognizable.
Stink bugs are originally from China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. How did they end up in Wonderopolis? These bugs were unintentionally brought to the United States. They began appearing in the U.S. in the mid-1990s after hitching a ride in packing crates. Nowadays, stink bugs can be found throughout the United States.
So, what is it that makes stink bugs stinky? They release a gas that many people liken to the scent of cilantro. This gas is emitted from stink glands located on the underside of their bodies, between their first and second pair of legs. These glands release the odor as a defense mechanism. You will perceive the smell if a stink bug feels threatened, similar to how a skunk defends itself.
In addition to their odor, stink bugs also cause significant problems for farmers as they are agricultural pests. While some insects, such as bees and praying mantises, are beneficial to farmers, stink bugs harm crops. They feed on various fruits and vegetables during their growth stage. This includes apples, cherries, peaches, raspberries, pears, green beans, and soybeans.
When the growing season is over, stink bugs invade nearby homes. As the cool fall nights arrive, they seek shelter in warm areas. Once they enter a house, they usually go into hibernation to survive the winter. In the spring, many people notice stink bugs in their homes. These insects are awakening from their hibernation and will soon make their way to nearby farms.
Are stink bugs harmful to humans? Normally, no! The worst one can experience is an unpleasant smell from these bugs. To avoid this, simply steer clear of stink bugs when you come across them. Getting too close could result in an extremely smelly situation.
Try It Out
Phew! Today’s Wonder of the Day really reeks! Open a window, grab a friend or family member, and explore one or more of the following activities:
- Do you think you would be able to recognize a stink bug if you saw one? Become familiar with the stink bug by looking at the pictures in this Stink Bug photo gallery. Once you have looked at the pictures, describe stink bugs to a friend or family member. Have you ever come across one in the wilderness? Stay alert. You never know when you might come across — or smell! — one!
- Can you understand how insects can cause issues for farmers? Guess what? They can also cause problems for gardeners. If you have a garden at home — or if you know someone who does — you might encounter problems with insect pests. How can you eliminate them? There are always chemicals that you can use. However, it is best to avoid chemicals if possible, as you do not necessarily want to use harsh chemicals around the food you are growing to consume. So what can you do? Read through Natural Garden Pest Control to discover natural ways to combat a wide range of garden pests. Then, write a paragraph explaining at least two methods to do so.
- Are you up for a challenge? What would you do if you were a stink bug? Write a short story or poem about what life is like as a stink bug. Does it bother you that people think you smell? Share with the reader your positive qualities. Have fun! No story is too outrageous or crazy. Be imaginative and let your imagination run wild.
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