Bagrada hilaris, commonly known as the bagrada bug or the painted bug, is an invasive species known for its distinctive orange and white markings and also for its ferocious appetite. These creatures feast on vegetable crops in the cabbage family (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, etc.), weedy mustards, and other plants and are a serious threat to our farming industry, especially in central and southern California and western Arizona. The more they eat, the fewer vegetables that make it to our markets, resulting in potentially higher prices and less variety.
What is ARS doing to control this hungry bug? Find out here.
U.S. Department of Agriculture