Leaf-footed bug

Description:

Adults are about 3/4 inch in length and are dark brown with a whitish to yellowish stripe across the central part of the back. The hind legs have flattened, leaf-like expansions on the tibia. Nymphal stages look similar to adults except that they do not have fully developed wings. A leaffooted bug in the genus Narnia is common on prickly pear cactus. Another species, Acanthocephala declivis (Say), is one of the largest true bugs in Texas, being over an inch in length as an adult. Adults are particularly active in the fall. Although some members of this group are predaceous, immature stages can be easily confused with assassin bugs (Reduviidae). (http://insects.tamu.edu/fieldguide/aimg6...)

Habitat:

Leaf-footed bugs feed on a wide variety of developing fruit, including cotton, peaches, and tomatoes, and seeds such as beans, black-eyed peas, and sorghum. They also feed on the stems and tender leaves of plants such as potatoes. Damage produced is similar to that produced by stink bugs. (http://insects.tamu.edu/fieldguide/aimg6...)

Notes:

Life cycle: Immature stages are gregarious, being found in high numbers on certain fruit where egg masses were laid. Pest status: Plant feeder; has well developed scent glands and will emit distinctive odor when handled.