Tell me more ×
Gardening & Landscaping Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for gardeners and landscapers. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 10 down vote favorite

What kind of bugs are these? Are they good or bad for plants? Do they bite?

Small red bugs

share|improve this question
Maybe newly hatched Leptoglossus species nymphs -- scroll down 2/3 of the page to see image... Please let us know what you think. – Mike Perry Sep 22 '11 at 16:04
@MikePerry I think you're spot on! Especially, the pattern of the little black dots on the back is a perfect match. – Lorem Ipsum Sep 22 '11 at 17:17
That looks like it -- thanks! (I guess Leptoglossus is really the genus, even though the web site says species.) – xpda Sep 22 '11 at 17:28
@MikePerry Answer! :) – Lorem Ipsum Sep 22 '11 at 17:34
@xpda I believe you're correct, see here: Leptoglossus – Mike Perry Sep 22 '11 at 17:35
show 2 more comments

1 Answer

up vote 5 down vote accepted

I believe they are newly hatched Leptoglossus nymphs -- scroll down ⅔ of that page to see images (reproduced below seeing as I'm unable to find any kind of Copyright notice on that site)...

enter image description here enter image description here

The genus Leptoglossus contains the classic leaf-footed bugs. The hind tibiae have large flared processes that resemble the shape of leaves. When these insects fly, their back legs hang down and they are easily mistaken for wasps, which also drag their hind legs in flight. They also buzz like wasps. In fact, this genus seems to have several tricks for discouraging predators. The nymphs are orange and black, a universal warning signal indicating bad taste or toxins in the insect world. They frequently feed in groups, which enhances the visual effect of the colors.

They feed on plants... therefore are not considered beneficial. They should be removed via:

  • An appropriate insecticide.

  • By hand picking -- personally I think I would got with that option or I might be tempted to get the vacuum out and suck them up...

Also check the plant for any eggs (unhatched) and remove them...

share|improve this answer

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.