COMMON NAME

Harlequin Bug

Order

Suborder

Family

Genus

Species

Alias

Hemiptera

Heteroptera

Scutelleridae

Tectocoris diophthalmus

Cotton harlequin bug, hibiscus harlequin bug, jewel bug

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Description

This species is a type of shield or stink bug. The female is bright orange with metallic green splotches and the males, which are smaller, are metallic green and red. The nymphs are bright metallic blue and red. Cotton-stainer bugs (Pyrrhocorids) are sometimes also called “harlequin bugs”, possibly because of the patterns and bright colours of their bodies.

Adult size: 20 mm

Out and about

It is seen during summer and autumn. It is found in New Guinea and some Pacific Islands as well as in the northern and eastern regions of Australia

Reproduction and Life cycle

Eggs are laid in early summer in clusters, often around a twig, and the female will guard them until they hatch.

To deter

To control

A good stage to target them is in the early nymph stages when their bodies are much softer and they are more vulnerable. Adults have much tougher bodies so applying something they ingest works for them. - Pyrethrum spray - Neem oil - Diatomaceous earth on nymphs - Soap spray - Garlic and chilli spray may help to deter them - Keep weeds down

Plants to repel

Plants to attract

Predators

Assassin bugs / Birds / Parasitic wasps

Why they are a Pest

Both adults and nymphs have piercing and sucking mouth parts and are quite a pest. They are found on hibiscus and related plants. They are a minor pest of cotton, hence cotton harlequin bug. We have had them on our rosella bushes, which are a hibiscus, hence hibiscus harlequin bug.

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