Identification
Shield-shaped, ~ 5-7 mm long, black on top with white and orange markings.
Life Cycle
Eggs are posited in clusters on leaves or soil.
There are five instars.
Remarks
Not native to North America, and a potential pest, especially of cruciferous crops (Brassicaceae, i.e. cabbage, kale, mustard), but also other crops (incl., at least in Africa, cotton, millet, potato).
ID confirmed by Rosser Garrison (CDFA), and a specimen sent to Thomas J. Henry (Smithsonian/ USDA).
Photo below is of one of the specimens sent to Rosser Garrison:
Internet References
Infonet Biovision page on the biology of the
Bagrada bug in Africa, inluding a photo of a mating pair of
B. hilaris.
Center for Invasive Species Research at U.C. Riverside:
Bagrada bug page.
