Predatory stink bugs (Pentatomidae)

General Information:

Pentatomidae is a large family of true bugs, many members of which are plant feeders and sometimes pests of potato (see the stink bug link under the “Insect Library” menu). Everyone involved in growing potatoes should know, however, that some stink bugs like Perillus and Podisus are beneficial predators of soft-bodied pests such as Colorado potato beetle and caterpillars. These stink bugs are often not abundant, but if a grower is lucky enough to have good numbers of them, they are very effective predators.