What are these tiny, bright red insects please - Ask Extension
I found many of these suddenly yesterday on the metal post of my backyard gate. At first they were all spread out and looked as if they were eating so...
Knowledgebase
What are these tiny, bright red insects please #793241
Asked May 29, 2022, 8:39 PM EDT
I found many of these suddenly yesterday on the metal post of my backyard gate. At first they were all spread out and looked as if they were eating something. When I came close to take a photo they swarmed together. Nothing unusual that I can think of except expected sudden change to hot weather and prior heavy rain. Nothing spilled.
Thank you.
Baltimore City County Maryland
Expert Response
These look like Florida Predatory Stink Bug nymphs (juvenile stage). We would need to see a clearer photo of the top side of the insect to confirm the ID, or you can compare them with photos on the Maryland Biodiversity Project website.
Despite "Florida" in their name, these are native insects that can occur in Maryland. We're at the northern part of their range.
This species preys upon other insects (often as a group) and should not harm any of your plants. They are considered beneficial because most of their prey consists of plant-damaging bugs, beetles, and caterpillars.
This article from the University of Florida has additional information: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/e_floridanus.htm
Christa
Despite "Florida" in their name, these are native insects that can occur in Maryland. We're at the northern part of their range.
This species preys upon other insects (often as a group) and should not harm any of your plants. They are considered beneficial because most of their prey consists of plant-damaging bugs, beetles, and caterpillars.
This article from the University of Florida has additional information: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/e_floridanus.htm
Christa
