Insects I Love - The Watermelon Stink Bug

A Peculiar Pest of Watermelons and Muskmelons

If you've ever been in a garden or farm with watermelons or muskmelons growing, you might have come across a rather large, noticeable insect with striking features: the Stink Bug, scientifically known as Coridius nubilis.

While it may look fascinating, it’s also an unwelcome guest in agricultural settings, particularly in areas where melons are grown.

Identifying the Stink Bug

The Coridius nubilis is a sizable bug, with an oval body that measures about 1,8 cm in length.

Its color is a rich mahogany brown, giving it a somewhat sturdy, earthy look. However, what truly sets this insect apart is its antennae.

The last two segments of the antennae are a bright orange, which serves as an easy identification feature for enthusiasts and farmers alike.

In its younger stages, or as nymphs, the stink bug is lighter brown, giving it a slightly different appearance than its adult form.

Despite this, the characteristic orange antennae are still present, ensuring that even the nymphs aren’t mistaken for other insects.

Where Do Stink Bugs Live?

The distribution of Coridius nubilis stretches across all of South Africa and into Namibia.

Within South Africa, they are commonly found in bushveld areas, where shrubs provide perfect habitats for these insects.

They also inhabit agricultural lands, especially in regions that experience summer rainfall.

This makes them especially problematic during the growing seasons of watermelon and muskmelon.

The Impact of Stink Bugs on Agriculture

As much as these bugs might seem fascinating to study, they are a considerable pest for farmers. Their primary food source comes from plants in the Cucurbitaceae family.

The Stink Bug feeds by sucking sap from the plants, which can weaken the plants and stunt their growth.

In severe infestations, stink bugs can even kill young seedlings, significantly reducing crop yields. Their feeding damage can also lead to the spread of diseases, further compounding the problems they cause for farmers.

Stink Bug Defense Mechanism: A Nasty Surprise

Like many bugs, Coridius nubilis has developed a defense mechanism to protect itself from predators.

When threatened, this Stink Bug releases a foul-smelling substance from glands located on its body. The smell is overpowering and unpleasant, which is where the “stink” part of their name comes from.

This defensive tactic makes it clear why handling or picking up a stink bug is not recommended. The smell can be so intense and long-lasting that it becomes difficult to remove, leaving an overwhelming odor behind.

A Global Perspective on the Stink Bug

While Coridius nubilis is primarily found in Southern Africa, the genus Coridius includes several species that are also found across Africa, Asia, and even parts of Europe.

Some of these species have found their way into European agricultural fields, where they are also considered pests on cucurbit crops.

Interestingly, in parts of South and Southeast Asia, certain species of the Coridius genus are actually eaten as food.

While this might sound unusual to some, insects have been an important source of nutrition in many cultures around the world.

About The Author

Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.

Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.

To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography

More Insect Stories

For more articles about insects you can click on the links below, there are so many great insects living amongst us to discover and learn about as they play a major role in nature as we see it today.

Dung Beetles: Click Here

Eastern Dotted Border: Click Here

Elegant Grasshopper: Click Here

Brown - Veined White: Click Here

Millipede Assassin Bug: Click Here

Acacia Bagworm: Click Here

African Moon Moth: Click Here

CMR Blister Beetle: Click Here

Tent Caterpillar: Click Here

Red - Veined Dropwing: Click Here

Milkweed Locust: Click Here

Common Tigertail: Click Here