Spatial distribution of brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) in peach orchards

Brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is an invasive pest of multiple crops in the mid-Atlantic region that has caused significant reductions in crop yield. Its ability to overwinter in forested areas and structures coupled with its wide host range have allowed it to establish populations in New Jersey farms since its introduction in 1996. The spread of H. halys threatens the marketability and productivity of peaches in New Jersey. Knowledge of their movement into and within orchards and the landscape factors that may influence its distribution and spread will allow for localized and efficient insecticide use. Understanding the landscape context around farms will also help to predict locations susceptible to establishment by this pest. The distribution and movement of H. halys in peach orchards was investigated in the summer of 2012. Twenty-three orchards (broad scale: ten in southern New Jersey and thirteen in northern New Jersey) were monitored weekly for H. halys. These orchards were chosen based on surrounding land use. GIS (Geospatial Information Systems) software was used to map H. halys populations and categorize land use around each orchard. Additionally, two orchards were sampled at a fine scale in which every tree was sampled.