COLUMBIA, Mo. — New research from the University of Missouri is giving soybean growers a clearer picture of where and when stink bugs are most likely to become a problem in Missouri fields.
Researchers surveyed more than 300 commercial soybean fields across the state during the 2024 and 2025 growing seasons and collected over 2,700 stink bugs representing nine different species. The study provides one of the most comprehensive looks to date at stink bug populations in Missouri soybeans.
The findings showed that the green stink bug is by far the most common species affecting Missouri soybean fields. More than 80 percent of all stink bugs collected during the survey belonged to that species. The one-spotted stink bug and brown stink bug were also present, but at much lower levels.
Researchers found stink bug populations were typically highest along field edges, particularly where soybean fields bordered wooded areas, crop residue, or other sheltered habitats. As the season progresses, insects move deeper into fields, making continued scouting important beyond the borders.
Timing also proved to be a key factor. Stink bug numbers remained relatively low early in the growing season but increased sharply once soybeans entered reproductive stages. Populations generally peaked during the full seed stage, when developing pods and seeds are most vulnerable to feeding damage.
Stink bug feeding can reduce yields, lower seed quality, and delay crop maturity, creating additional challenges at harvest.
The study also found differences across Missouri’s various growing regions. Areas with a mix of cropland, pasture, and timber often supported a wider range of stink bug species and varying population levels.
Researchers noted that invasive species currently remain a limited concern in Missouri soybean production. The brown marmorated stink bug was detected only in small numbers, while the red-banded stink bug was not found during the survey.
Missouri growers plant more than 5 million acres of soybeans annually, making insect management an important part of protecting yields. Across major soybean-producing states, stink bugs are considered one of the most costly insect pests, contributing to millions of bushels in annual crop losses.
Based on the findings, MU researchers recommend that producers begin scouting along field edges, increase monitoring efforts during pod fill and seed development, and adjust management strategies based on local growing conditions.
The research provides soybean producers with a better understanding of stink bug movement and activity, helping farmers make more timely and informed pest management decisions throughout the growing season.