Southern green stink bug vs Brown stink bug
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a southern green stink bug from a brown stink bug, and whether either one bites or stings.
Southern green stink bug
Nezara viridula
Brown stink bug
Euschistus servus
≠The key differences
Nezara viridula is usually green (sometimes turning brownish with age) and has a different overall hue and shoulder markings; E. servus is typically brown from adulthood onward.
⚖︎Side by side
| Southern green stink bug | Brown stink bug | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Odor nuisance | Non-toxic |
| Size | 10-18 mm long (typical adult) | 11-15 mm long |
| Colours | Bright green, Pale yellow, Dark brown (antennae markings) | Brown, Reddish-brown, Yellowish-beige (underside) |
| Family | Pentatomidae | Pentatomidae |
| Habitat | Agricultural fields, gardens, hedgerows and other vegetated areas; often on host plants and crop foliage | Fields, orchards, gardens, hedgerows; in autumn also buildings and agricultural structures for overwintering |
| Range | Originally pantropical; now established worldwide in tropical, subtropical and many temperate regions (Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australasia) | Widespread across eastern and central North America; reaches parts of the southern United States, Mexico and into Central America |
| Active | Warm months and daytime; in warm climates adults can be active much of the year | Warm months (spring to fall); most active during day and early evening; overwinters as adult |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot a southern green stink bug
- Bright green, shield-shaped adult 10-18 mm long with a large triangular scutellum covering much of the back
- Antennae usually with darker bands or tipped segments; edges of pronotum or scutellum may have pale margins
- Nymphs are rounded and change from darker, spotted early instars to green in later instars
- Eggs in compact clusters on the underside of leaves
🔍How to spot a brown stink bug
- Shield-shaped body typical of stink bugs, 11-15 mm long with a broad rounded abdomen.
- Uniform medium to dark brown overall colour without the distinct white antenna banding of brown marmorated stink bug.
- Large triangular scutellum on the back that does not cover the entire abdomen.
- When handled or crushed emits a strong, pungent odor.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a southern green stink bug and a brown stink bug?
Nezara viridula is usually green (sometimes turning brownish with age) and has a different overall hue and shoulder markings; E. servus is typically brown from adulthood onward.
Is a southern green stink bug or a brown stink bug more dangerous?
Southern green stink bug: Odor nuisance. Brown stink bug: Non-toxic. Nezara viridula does not sting or inject venom. Brown stink bugs are not venomous and do not pose a medical threat.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.