Southern green stink bug vs Harlequin bug
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a southern green stink bug from a harlequin bug, and whether either one bites or stings.
Southern green stink bug
Nezara viridula
Harlequin bug
Murgantia histrionica
≠The key differences
Nezara viridula is usually green (sometimes mottled) and lacks the high-contrast orange-red and black pattern of Murgantia histrionica.
⚖︎Side by side
| Southern green stink bug | Harlequin bug | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Odor nuisance | Non-toxic |
| Size | 10-18 mm long (typical adult) | 8-11 mm long |
| Colours | Bright green, Pale yellow, Dark brown (antennae markings) | Bright orange-red, Black, Yellow, White |
| Family | Pentatomidae | Pentatomidae |
| Habitat | Agricultural fields, gardens, hedgerows and other vegetated areas; often on host plants and crop foliage | Field crops, home vegetable gardens, weedy field margins and other areas where cruciferous plants grow |
| Range | Originally pantropical; now established worldwide in tropical, subtropical and many temperate regions (Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australasia) | Native to Mexico and Central America; spread through much of the United States since the mid-1800s and most common in the southern half of the country, occasionally reaching farther north |
| Active | Warm months and daytime; in warm climates adults can be active much of the year | Spring to fall (most active in warm months), diurnal but visible anytime on host plants |
| 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 harlequin bug
- Distinctive black-and-orange-red patterned shield-shaped body, 6-12 mm long
- Adults have alternating bright and dark patches on the pronotum and scutellum; nymphs are bright red/orange with black spots
- Eggs are barrel-shaped and laid in tight clusters on the underside of leaves
- Produces a noticeable odor if crushed
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a southern green stink bug and a harlequin bug?
Nezara viridula is usually green (sometimes mottled) and lacks the high-contrast orange-red and black pattern of Murgantia histrionica.
Is a southern green stink bug or a harlequin bug more dangerous?
Southern green stink bug: Odor nuisance. Harlequin bug: Non-toxic. Nezara viridula does not sting or inject venom. Harlequin bugs do not pose a venom or disease risk to people.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.