Kudzu bug was first discovered in Georgia in 2009, and has expanded its range to include Maryland, where it was discovered in 2013. The bug has not expanded its range northward, indicating that kudzu bugs may not be able to tolerate colder conditions to the north. This study investigates how temperature affects kudzu bug survival. Kudzu bugs overwinter in leaf litter which is an insulated microhabitat where temperature varies less than in exposed air. This study focuses on degree-day development and overwintering in microhabitats. Observations will be used to validate a model of phenology for Kudzu bugs.
Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents