Identifying Black Bugs with Orange Stripes on St. Augustine in Southeast Texas

Black, almond-shaped bugs (¼") with two orange-yellow stripes, red underbelly/legs, flying 1-2 ft, congregating on siding in mornings — classic description of False Chinch Bugs (Nysius raphanus) or Chinch Bugs (Blissus insularis) in Southeast Texas.

Differentiation

Identification Resources

• Texas A&M Entomology — search "chinch bug" and "false chinch bug"
• Capture specimen in jar; take to Calloway's, Cornelius, or local extension office
• Check for damage: part grass in sunny areas; look for nymphs (red/orange) at soil line

Management

If False Chinch Bug: Tolerate — they leave in weeks. Vacuum/sweep from structures.

If Southern Chinch Bug:

• Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil (thorough thatch penetration)
• Beauveria bassiana (fungal biopesticide)
• Resistant St. Augustine cultivars: 'Captiva', 'Floratam' (partial)
• Reduce thatch (>½") — core aerate, topdress compost
• Avoid excess nitrogen — attracts chinch bugs

Correct ID prevents unnecessary treatment. Most spring aggregations on walls are harmless false chinch bugs.