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Kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) is an invasive pest that was first detected in Kentucky during 2013. While reported to be a serious pest of all types of beans, it has not reached damaging levels in our state. This pest feeds on bean pods and stems using piercing-sucking mouthparts; this can reduce pod production. The adult is small (about ¼ inch) with a roughly square shape and convex body. Nymphs are greenish-gray and hairy. Scout plant stems and underneath leaves for the presence of nymphs and adults.

Kutzu bug.

(Photo: Joe Eger, Dow Agrosciences, Bugwood.org)

Management:

• Weekly monitoring and use of insecticides will be the primary strategy for this pest.
• Watch for up-to-date information from the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension regarding this new pest.

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