La red bug it is an insect that multiplies so rapidly that it can reach pest status very quickly if no action is taken. It is especially active during the warm months of the year, which also usually coincide with the driest (or less rainy) season.
But What can we do so that they don't cause us problems? If you are wondering this, then we will answer your question.
What is it?
The red bug, whose scientific name is Pyrrhocoris apterus, is an insect also known as the arboreal mallow, cobbler or San Antonio bug that is found from the Atlantic coast of Europe to northwest China, as well as in the United States and Central America. Their main food is the seeds of the malvaceae, but if there are none, they will eat cauliflower and / or cabbage.
The life cycle lasts between 2 and 3 months, and the hatching of the egg occurs between 7 and 10 days after laying. Once it reaches the adult stage, the female measures between 7 and 12mm and the males between 6,5 and 11mm.
It is very similar to Spilostethus pandurus, which is another much more destructive bed bug. It differs from it by the drawings it has on the back, and by its size, being our larger protagonist.
What are the symptoms and / or damage it causes?
When feeding on cauliflower and / or cabbage, you will see that these plants have bitten leaves, which will weaken them. Also, the growth rate will slow down as the pest progresses.
What can be done to repel it?
Take ecological measures, of course:
- Turmeric powder: around plants for example, it will help keep it away thanks to curcumin, which is an antimicrobial agent that will prevent it from surviving.
- Menta: plant some specimens in your garden or orchard, or use peppermint oil on those plants you want to protect.
Do you know of other tricks to keep her away? Feel free to say them in the comments 🙂.