One of our current research projects is to identify a species of soapberry bug found on the island. These insects are true bugs from the subfamily Serinethinae. Ours are predominantly orange. Insects from this group feed on vines from the soapberry family, and ours use their piercing mouthparts to puncture the seeds and suck out the insides. So far, I’ve only encountered them on two patches of soapberry vine in Pointe Blanche. We are working with a group of experts to learn more about this insect. For more information about these insects, visit their site, Soapberry Bugs of the World. Below is a photo of a young nymph (immature bug) feeding.
