Bordered Plant Bug
Largidae sp.
Physical Features
The adult bordered plant bug is about ½ inch long. It is grey to black with orange around the margins of the head (pronotum) and abdomen. They have piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Life Cycle
Gradual Metamorphosis
The nymphs are black with a red triangular marking on the back of abdomen. They are wingless but develop wings by adulthood and the adult markings. Females lay eggs next to a host plant. Nymphs hatch from eggs after 5 to 8 days. They will reach adult stage after 21-35 days and 5 instars.
Habits
- Diet: Feeds on liquid from plant tissues mainly from flowers and fruit.
- Activity: Spring to fall near flowering plants or weeds.
- Preferred Climate: Warm climates.
- Defense: Markings warning of the noxious chemical exuded if captured by a predator.
- Cautions: Although they feed on plants, they are considered to cause little to know damage to them.
- Home Invasion: Will start entering homes in the fall seeking shelter to overwinter. Not considered to be of any danger. Nuisance.
Helpful Hints for Control
- Keep weeds removed.
- Seal cracks and crevices that they could enter the home. Do not leave doors open.
- Exterior pest control in cracks and crevices to prevent interior entry.
Interesting Fact
Aposematic is the term used for the warning coloration of many insects like the bordered plant bug signaling to their predator danger.
