Brightfield image of stink bug eggs. Stink bugs are agricultural pests that exist throughout the world and emit a characteristic foul-smelling odor when disturbed. Eggs are laid in clusters (averaging 36 eggs) primarily on leaves and stems but also on pods. Nymphs hatch from these eggs and pass through five instars before becoming adults. Approximately 5 weeks elapse between hatching and adult emergence. Sixth Prize, 2011 Olympus BioScapes Digital Imaging Competition®.