The Kumamoto International entomology desk is normally run by William, but seeing this NPR (National Public Radio, a U.S. network) news story prompted me to take a stab at running entomology desk for the day.
I had never hear of a “brown marmorated stink bug” before but the word “stink” made me think of a critter I know from my experience in Japan. When I looked up the scientific name (halyomorpha halys) with some Japanese words (虫, の etc.) I found that, sure enough, the stinky bug I have encountered here seems to be the invasive species identified in the NPR segment. The Japanese name is “kusagi kamemushi.” It’s usually written in katakana but the kanji are 臭木椿象 – yup, “stink” is in the Japanese name for this bug too.
It won’t kill you but I’d advise you not pick it up. ;)
– Kirk
