Jerusalem crickets (or potato bugs) [1] are a group of large, flightless insects in the genera Ammopelmatus and Stenopelmatus, together comprising the tribe Stenopelmatini. The former genus is native to the Western United States and parts of Mexico, while the latter genus is from Central America. [2]

Oct 18, 2022 · The potato bug is also called Jerusalem cricket or child of the earth bug and it lives in the western United States and Mexico. These nocturnal large insects can get into your home and usually inflict a nasty bite if they feel threatened or cornered.

Potato bugs have strong jaws that can sink into the skin and cause a moderate amount of pain if they bite you. Luckily, it isn’t common to get bitten by potato bugs and they don’t inject venom. While pesky, these bugs are naturally shy and will scurry away from humans.

Potato bugs (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) are a common pest in garden beds. Colorado potato beetles, in both adult and larval forms, chew the leaves on garden plants and can defoliate entire crops if you don’t get rid of them quickly. Potato bugs can also reduce the yield that you have in your garden beds.

Mar 20, 2025 · Have you asked yourself, “What is a potato bug?” If so, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll aim to explain what a potato bug is, how to identify it, and how to keep these insect pests out of your home. Keep reading to learn all the ins and outs of potato bugs.

When gardeners talk about potato bugs or pill bugs, they’re referring to two kinds of bugs in particular. These potato bugs are the Jerusalem cricket (Stenopelmatus fuscus) and the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). The potato …

Dec 30, 2021 · Potato bug bites aren’t dangerous, but they’re nasty. The potato bug, also known as the Jerusalem cricket or child of the earth bug, is found in the western USA and Mexico. These giant nocturnal insects might enter your home and bite if threatened or trapped.

What are Potato Bugs? Potato bugs have a name reminiscent of a cartoon bug that humorously loves potatoes, but it is actually not the most accurate name. They are also mistakenly called Jerusalem crickets, pill bugs, and skunk bugs.

Dec 23, 2024 · In this article, we’ll explore all about the potato bug, their often confused nemesis: the potato beetle and also the pill bug, and how they are highly beneficial within their ecosystem, aiding in decomposition and playing a key role in the nutrient cycle.

Apr 4, 2024 · Potato bugs, also known as Colorado potato beetles, are known to be serious pests of potatoes, causing significant damage to potato plants and other related crops. These beetles have a yellow and black-striped appearance and are dangerous to plants, as both the adult and larva feed on potato leaves, reducing yield and even killing the plants.