This species often harms certain crops, making it a foe detested by many Vietnamese farmers.
Upon hearing the name “net bug”, many will immediately think of the painful sting from their bite. This pest not only has an unappealing appearance but also poses a threat to both crops and humans.
The hairs on the net bug contain many chemicals that can damage the skin’s surface upon contact.
The net bug has many fine hairs, so if you come into contact with them, these hairs can penetrate the skin. In particular, the tips of the net bug’s hairs contain numerous chemicals that can harm the skin’s surface, causing itching and even leading to dermatitis and blisters. For farmers, the net bug is one of their top “enemies.”
However, over time, this “monster” has turned into a “treasure” that helps many people earn a significant income.
In some rural areas of Guangxi, China—where net bugs are also prevalent—you can sell net bug larvae for up to 400 CNY per kilogram, equivalent to over 1.3 million VND per kilogram. Even more surprisingly, they are used as food.
They are brownish-yellow and resemble quail eggs in shape.
Every October, the larvae of the net bug grow larger and begin to form cocoons for better survival in the cold winter weather. They have a brownish-yellow exterior and a shape similar to that of quail eggs, but they are smaller in size.
The larvae inside these cocoons are rich in protein, fat, and contain many trace elements. They are even affectionately dubbed “sea cucumbers on trees.” The Chinese will “harvest” them in winter, then roast them with salt, creating a unique snack.
