This insect has an uncommon genetic mutation which results in its bright pink color. It is found in our area during this time of year. Name the mystery bug. Bonus if you can name the mutation! Post your response as a comment. Winner gets bragging rights!
Mystery Bug #1
August 7, 2011 by Linda Welch
Monroe County Master Gardener Association 
Hint: First discovered in 1887 (I have the unfair advantage of being an early bird) But I’m not naming it.
i think it is a punk rocker jiminy cricket.
This is a pink katydid with an x chromosome mutation called erythrism. Dang, I didn’t want to spend this much time on the computer this morning but I learned a lot. It is a melanin mutation.
a cricket or grasshopper.
Bragging rights to Naida!
FYI – while looking up pink insects I found that the praying mantis, grasshopper, hummingbird moth, and dragonfly can also be pink. All news to me.
You guys have got it all wrong! This is a hybrid marmorated stink bug, jiminy cricket cross, who just got back from a Lady Ga-Ga concert. I believe there is a matching lip gloss and eye shadow to go with the pink nail polish.
Georgeann and Lenore have got it partially right, except for the toe nail paint job.
Sandy and Naida…you gals are spending too much time online!!
I am pleased everyone is having such a good time with this little quiz. We have more bugs for you to identify as well as a bunch of Mystery Plants….this is my kind of gardening…indoors and in front of the computer in air conditioned comfort!