Prickly Pear Bug
MODERATEChelinidea tabulata
Overview
This bug was on my rear windshield right after I parked. I don’t know where in NW Austin I picked it up, but it lives here now. The photos aren’t the best focus, but they do accurately capture the washed out color of this bug.
- Type
- Insect
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Targeted Insecticide Application
Apply appropriate insecticide following label directions. Timing is critical — treat during the vulnerable larval or adult emergence stage for maximum effectiveness.
Biological Control Agents
Introduce or encourage natural predators and parasitoids. Options include releasing predatory beetles, parasitic wasps, or applying Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar pests.
Infested Material Removal
Prune and destroy infested branches and plant material. Remove fallen debris that may harbor eggs or larvae. Dispose of material away from healthy trees.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Prickly Pear Bug. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Prickly Pear Bug?
This bug was on my rear windshield right after I parked. I don’t know where in NW Austin I picked it up, but it lives here now. The photos aren’t the best focus, but they do accurately capture the washed out color of this bug.
What are the symptoms of Prickly Pear Bug?
Where is Prickly Pear Bug currently found?
Prickly Pear Bug is currently active in Texas. It has been reported in 1 total state across the United States.
How do I treat Prickly Pear Bug?
Treatment options for Prickly Pear Bug include: Targeted Insecticide Application, Biological Control Agents, Infested Material Removal. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.