Which pest, Lygus hesperus, is commonly referred to as what type of bug?

Lygus hesperus is commonly known as the Western tarnished plant bug. This classification as a plant bug is linked to its feeding habits and the damage it inflicts on various crops and plants. Lygus hesperus is a significant pest in agriculture, especially in cotton, alfalfa, and various fruit crops, where it feeds on the sap of plants. The piercing-sucking mouthparts of this bug allow it to extract nutrients from plant tissues, leading to a reduction in crop quality and yield. This association with plants and the specific behavior of causing damage to them is why the term "plant bug" is suitable.

In contrast, other options like leaf bug, push bug, or stink bug do not accurately describe the unique characteristics or behavior of Lygus hesperus. The term "stink bug," for instance, refers to other species that may produce a foul odor when threatened. Therefore, the classification of Lygus hesperus as a plant bug emphasizes its role and implications for agricultural practices.