ES RDE 040 - Brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) surveillance in the

Description

Surveillance activities for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) conducted in previous years revealed a significant and concerning increase in its presence in the UK, indicating not only increased incursions but also that BMSB is beginning to establish breeding populations under UK conditions. The highest number of records was in 2025 (49), which was over double the number of individuals reported in 2024. An additional report of a dead Erthesina fullo (yellow-spotted stink bug) was received, which could also pose a risk to plant health and further highlights the risk of invasive insects entering the UK through trade and leisure. The widespread distribution of sightings in the 2025 surveillance study highlighted the multiple pathways through which BMSB is entering the UK. It is now clear (for BMSB) that international trade and travel are the most significant risk factors, underscoring the need for heightened biosecurity measures.