The Striped Bug, or Italian Striped Bug… A striking insect with a bright red and black striping. Scientific name: Graphosoma italicum This beauty is in the family of Pentatomidae – true bugs, shield bugs & stinkbugs
A Harmless Beauty
The Striped Bug may look fierce, but it does nothing to harm humans or plants. It mainly consumes the seeds of Umbelliferae berries like fennel and dill. Although this feeding behavior may be harmful to the plants, in general it is not a major problem.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of the Striped Bug is quite similar. Mating adults oviposit on a suitable host plant The nymphs hatch from the eggs and look like small adults without wings. As they develop, the nymphs molt several times as their exoskeleton is cast off. They mature and grow wings eventually
A Beneficial Role
Although the Striped Bug is sometimes just a minor pest, it also serves to be useful one in our ecosystem. It is eaten by a number of other predators, such as birds and insects. Moreover, its beautiful appearance works as a magnet for pollinators in gardens also.
How to attract Striped Bugs from your Garden
If you want the little Striped Bugs in your garden: They happen to think umbelliferous herbs like fennel, dill and cow parsley are perfect! These plants can also be a source of food and cover for the bugs. Do not use harmful chemical pesticides, they will also kill this Striped Bug along with other beneficial bugs.
By learning what the Striped Bug help with in nature and luring them into your yard, you contribute to a more colorful outdoor life.