Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855), an invasive pest native to Eurasia, has rapidly expanded across Europe, causing significant agricultural losses and becoming a nuisance in urban areas. Its high invasiveness is linked to extreme polyphagy, with over 300 known host plant species, and strong adaptability to diverse habitats. First reported in Romania in 2013, the species is now well established, yet its morphological variation in urban environments of western Romania remains insufficiently documented. This study aimed to analyze the biomorphometric variability of H. halys populations from Timișoara, providing insights into their adaptation to urban habitats. The survey was carried out in the city of Timișoara during the autumn vegetation season of 2025. Adult specimens were collected manually during the 2025 autumn season from ornamental vegetation and building façades. Several morphometric parameters were measured using EduBlue LCD and Optika B-510BF LCD microscopes. A total of 14 morphometric measurements were taken for each individual, covering antennal, cephalic, thoracic, and abdominal traits. Morphometric analysis of urban Halyomorpha halys populations in western Romania revealed pronounced sexual dimorphism, with females consistently larger than males in cephalic, thoracic, and abdominal traits. Preliminary results indicate low but consistent morphometric variability, with body size and structural measurements falling within known European ranges, suggesting morphological uniformity of urban populations in western Romania.

brown marmorated stink bug, urban population, invasive species, western Romania, morphometric variability

agronomy

Presentation: poster