Leaf Legged Bug

Leaf-footed bugs are a garden nuisance that discolor and damage fruit crops.

Leaf legged bug. The leaffooted bug Leptoglossus phyllopus Linnaeus Figure 1 is a widespread and conspicuous minor pest of many kinds of crops including fruits vegetables grains nuts and ornamentals. They are a different insect family altogether than stink bugs. Leaf-Footed Bug Assassin Bug Kissing Bug Stink Bug.

1234 in 1520 mm 121 in 1224 mm Up to 34-in long 20 mm Colors. Light orange to bright red when young. Prevention is the Key.

In Texas where the image at right was taken leaf-footed bugs frequently appear near pecan trees tomato plants numerous other fruit and vegetable crops and cotton plants some of their favorite food sources. The red legged leaf footer is mostly black with red to orange legs. Leaf-footed bugs feed on many plants including tomatoes peaches blueberries beans okra and pecans.

Leafooted bugs are found in Florida throughout the year but are most active during the warmer months. Although they differ widely in coloration each shares a distinctive trait. When you are out looking for a treatment the treatment you get for a stink bug may not be effective at all on the Leaf footed bug.

An easily identifiable beneficial is the lady bug. The leaf-footed bug is a common sight in many parts of the country. They feed on a multitude of plants but the hibiscus is particularly prone to three types.

Though rarely a serious infestation they feed on a wide variety of crops causing damage to fruits vegetables grains nuts and ornamentals. Their legs are strong and ideal for grabbing hold to host plants. It has been reported as a major pest in citrus groves where its feeding on.