Rearing protocol and density trials of the brown marmorated stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in the laboratory

The following procedures provide a framework for rearing Halyomorpha halys (Staol) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). The insects were cultured in slightly modified, commercially available bug dorms. A diet of organic beans, organic carrots, organic sunflowers seeds, and water was replaced on the maintenance days of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to maximize freshness of the food. Egg masses were collected and bug dorms were cleaned on maintenance days as well. Adult density affected the number of egg masses laid per female and female survival in this protocol. Densities greater than 2 mating pairs per bug dorm significantly reduced egg mass production per female and led to shortened adult female longevity.