Conchuela Bug

Image: Martha Krishan | 07 Oct 2008

I have an ever-bearing raspberry patch that currently is being attacked by a beetle-like insect. I've been unable to identify it and would like your help to eradicate this pest which is causing the leaves on the tops of the plants to curl and brown and the berries to deform. The beetle is about 1/2 inch long, dark black with a thin band of orange around the body. The first crop of berries was fine, but the crop now coming is starting to be attacked by these insects and I'm hoping to nip it in the bud before too much damage is done.

Conway Lum, Certified Horticultural Technician and GardenWise Plant Troubleshooter

The insect is "Conchuela Bug" (Chlorochroa ligata) is a type of "Stink Bug" which feeds on plant material by sucking. Some other stink bug can be beneficial by feeding other insects. Stink bug tend to migrate from other sources, e.g. weeds or other herbaceous plants, when these materials are becoming scare. Control these sources to reduce overwinter insects. If unmanageable on raspberries use a spray for aphid control, e.g. pre- and post-blossom treatment. Use with caution as spraying at this time could reduce bee pollination.