Lygus nymph

Description:

Immature lygus bugs (nymphs) (Figure 2) are light green and wingless. Young nymphs are often mistaken for aphids, which are similar in size and shape. However, lygus bug nymphs are much more active, are harder bodied and lack the cornicles ("tail pipes") of aphids. Several black spots, usually five, become noticeable on the backs of nymphs as they mature through five instars (growth stages). Wing buds are evident in the fourth and fifth instar.

Habitat:

Wide range of habitat from alfalfa fields to canola fields also found in gardens.

Notes:

Lygus bugs are small, oval-shaped insects that feed on a variety of crops and weeds. Several species infest canola and alfalfa. In Western Canada, Lygus lineolaris (the tarnished plant bug), L. borealis, L. elisus and L. keltoni have been observed destroying canola flower buds and seeds. All four species are thought to be equally destructive.