There are a number of insect species that can be confused with the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. Many look similar in appearance and include other native hemipteran insect species that are often referred to as ‘Look-a-Likes’.
They include images below of representative insect species including stink bugs found throughout New York State:
• Brown stink bug
• Spined soldier bug
• Dusky stink bug
• Rough stink bug
• Green stink bug
• Boxelder bug
• Western conifer-seed bug
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug can be distinguished from other stink bugs a number of markings that include white stripe on the antennae and legs, black and white banding on its abdomen and four cream colored dots along the leading edge of the thorax and abdomen.
Other related stink bugs are also shield shaped and include the green and brown stink bug.
The Western Conifer Seed Bug and the Boxelder Bug found indoors during the winter are two species that are not in the stink bug family (Pentatomidae), Greek pente meaning five and tomos meaning section, a family of insects belonging to order Hemiptera.
Western Conifer Seed Bug has an elongated body form with square shoulder, long legs, brown in appearance. The Boxelder Bug has an oval in shape that narrows toward the head similar to a football, distinguished by red markings on a black body.
