Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 357

The western conifer seed bug is a small insect that can fly and emits an unpleasant smell as a defense mechanism. They feed on conifer sap, causing damage to developing seeds, and can also feed on other plants if needed. The bug lays eggs on host plants, and the nymphs go through several stages before becoming adults. In the United States, they have one generation per year, but in southern Europe, they can have two generations. In northern areas, they seek shelter in crevices during winter and may enter houses in large numbers, sometimes causing damage by piercing tubing.