Harlequin (bug) Romance?

Harlequin bugs are a variety of stink bug that can cause problems with cole crops (ex: cabbage, broccoli, collards) in warmer areas.

In my case, they have moved into an experimental patch of pak choi- experimental in that I am testing how the Joy Choi variety might fare in the hot summers here. The plants were doing fairly well and exhibited no signs of bolting after I set them out in June. But……

There was an orgy of sorts going on when I arrived and most of the colorful pests scattered as I attempted to pick them off, but these two apparently had no shame.

While their position seems void of any entomological intimacy, it is actually quite effective. The damage from this growing colony is already apparent; they suck the juices out of leaves and stems leaving behind the brown spots. If left alone eventually they will take over and this will kill the plants.

Go ahead and party up tonight you disgusting little fornicators, because tomorrow the Neem Oil comes out.