Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB)

What is it?

Brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) is an exotic plant pest. In NSW it is a notifiable plant pest.

What does it look like?

The distinct features of adult BMSB are the white bands on the antennae, sides of the abdomen and on the legs. Stink bugs emit a pungent odour when disturbed.

There are a number of Australian native stink bugs which are similar to BMSB. However, BMSB feeds on a wide range of fruit and vegetables resulting in produce that is unfit for sale.

How is it spread?

Brown marmorated stink bug is a highly mobile pest which can move from host to host during spring and summer. To manage the risk posed by BMSB to Australia, surveillance has been heightened on selected imports shipped to Australia.

Where is it found?

BMSB is not present in Australia, but was found in a shipment of imported electrical equipment from Italy in 2017. Following a 12 month eradication and monitoring campaign, NSW was officially declared BMSB free in August 2018.

What is the potential cost to Australia?

Due to the damage BMSB causes to fruit and vegetables, this harmful exotic pest poses a serious threat to Australia and NSW’s $1 billion horticulture industry.

How is it treated?

For the 2018-19 BSMB risk season, certain goods manufactured in, or shipped as sea cargo from several  high risk exporting countries will be subject to increased onshore intervention.

How do I report it?

If found, it must be reported immediately to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 or email clear photos with a brief explanation and contact details to biosecurity@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

More information

For more information, visit BMSB.