First records of an invasive bug in Europe : Halyomorpha halys Stål (Heteroptera : Pentatomidae), a new pest on woody ornamentals and fruit trees?

In 2007 five incidences of the brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys Stål 1855 (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) were recorded from the area around the City of Zürich in Switzerland. While most records were of single individuals, in one case exotic ornamentals suffered from a mass attack. These are the first records of this invasive bug not just in Switzerland but also in Europe. This phytophagous species is native to East Asia and was introduced into the USA about a decade ago. It is considered a pest both in its countries of origin and introduction, especially for horticultural crops such as stone fruit pest and pomes as well as for woody ornamentals. Moreover, it can become a nuisance in residential areas when it pomes aggregates on buildings and in homes seeking shelter for overwintering. A brief literature review is given here of its biology, host plants, natural enemies and economic impact in East Asia and in the USA. The possible significance of this new potential pest in Central Europe is also assessed.