Bug that feeds on vegetable crops found in W.Va.

Associated Press

MORGANTOWN, W.Va.

Growers are being warned to be on the lookout for a pest that feeds on broccoli, cabbage and other vegetable crops.

West Virginia University entomology specialist Daniel Frank says the harquelin bug has been found in parts of the state.

Frank said Thursday in a news release that growers can avoid significant crop loss if they identify damage early and begin control methods.

Harlequin bugs leave yellow or white blotches behind when they feed on a plants. Plants also can be wilted or deformed as the bug sucks fluids from plant tissue. Plants with heavy infestations can die.

The bugs are black with bright red, yellow or orange markings.