Stink Bug (Tetroda denticulifera) | Slow-Moving Rice Pest with Serious Impact
Stink Bug (Tetroda denticulifera)
A Slow-Moving Menace in Rice Fields
Among the many insect pests found in rice paddies, the Stink Bug (Tetroda denticulifera, Berg) may not be as common as planthoppers or leafhoppers—but when left uncontrolled, it can cause serious damage by feeding on rice stems and leaves. Its foul odor, emitted from scent glands, has earned it the name "stink bug" in English.
Basic Information
- Common Name: Stink Bug
- Scientific Name: Tetroda denticulifera (Berg)
- Family: Pentatomidae
- Order: Hemiptera
Morphology & Biology
Body Length: ~1.6 cmBody Shape: Flattened, elongated, shield-like
Coloration:
- Males: Dark gray
- Females: Brownish-gray
Distinctive Features:
- Two prong-like projections on the head
- Sharp spines on the first thoracic segment
- Black legs, antennae, and eyes
- Dark gray scutellum
- White wing tips and orange lateral margins
Wings:
- Forewings: Hemelytra (partially hardened)
- Hindwings: Membranous
Legs: Walking legs
Behavior:
- Moves slowly
- Often remains stationary
- Emits a strong odor from specialized scent glands
Life Cycle (Incomplete Metamorphosis)
Egg Stage
- Laid in rows on the underside of rice leaves
- 150–200 eggs per female
- Incubation period: ~6–8 days
Nymph Stage
- 5 instars
- Development period: ~60–66 days
Adult Stage
- Lifespan: ~70–125 days
- Capable of continuous reproduction and damage
Host Plants & Feeding Damage
Primary Hosts:
Grasses in the Poaceae family, including:
- Rice
- Barnyard grass
- Wild rice
- Johnson grass
Feeding Damage:
- Feeds by inserting its mouthparts into stems and leaves
- Causes wilting and dehydration of rice plants
- Severe infestations can result in plant death and yield loss
Distribution
Although no official global distribution data is available, Tetroda denticulifera has been frequently observed in rice fields across Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Prevention & Control Methods
While the Stink Bug spreads more slowly than other rice pests, early intervention can help minimize its damage:
✅ Manual Egg Removal
- Inspect the underside of rice leaves
- Collect and destroy egg masses outside the field
✅ Sweep Netting
- Use sweep nets to collect nymphs and adults
- Physically remove them from the field for disposal
Mechanical control methods reduce reliance on chemicals and have less impact on natural enemies.
✅ Conclusion
The Stink Bug (Tetroda denticulifera) is a slow-moving yet destructive pest that can go unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Its long life cycle and ability to feed on vital parts of the rice plant make it a real threat. Early detection of egg clusters and nymphs—paired with prompt physical control—can prevent widespread infestation. Farmers should regularly monitor their fields and apply targeted, eco-friendly control measures to maintain crop health and productivity.
Stink Bug (Tetroda denticulifera) — 3 High-Intent FAQs
Q: 1 How do I quickly tell Tetroda denticulifera from other stink bugs in rice?
A: Look for a flattened, elongated “shield” body (~1.6 cm) with two small prongs on the head, sharp spines on the first thoracic segment, dark gray scutellum, white wing tips, and orange side margins. Males are darker gray, females brownish-gray. Antennae, legs, and eyes are black. Eggs are laid in neat rows on the underside of leaves—a handy field clue during scouting.Q: 2 Does the stink bug’s odor contaminate rice or pose health risks?
A: The smell comes from scent glands used for defense—it’s unpleasant but not a toxin to humans at field levels. The real risk is plant damage (wilting, dehydration, yield loss) from sap feeding, not food safety. Proper post-harvest handling (drying, cleaning, milling) removes incidental contaminants; prevention focuses on protecting plants, not decontaminating grain.3) What eco-friendly actions should I take first—before considering insecticides?
A:- Scout smart: Check leaf undersides for egg rows and inspect lower stems/leaf bases (just above water) where nymphs/adults feed.
- Hand/Mechanical removal: Collect and destroy egg masses; use sweep nets to remove nymphs/adults from infested patches.
- Weed hygiene: Reduce Poaceae weeds (barnyard grass, wild rice, Johnson grass) on bunds and edges that harbor stink bugs.
- Crop vigor: Maintain steady water and avoid plant stress (stressed plants suffer more from sap loss).
