Odontopus versicolor Herrich-Schaeffer, 1853[1] Dindymus versicolor, commonly called the harlequin bug,[2] is a species of cotton stainer bug (red bug), found in south-eastern Australia and Tasmania.

An attractive insect, up to 12 mm long with a black head and bands on the fore-wing, and orange/red elsewhere.

[3] These sucking insects have a reputation as a pest in the garden, damaging a wide range of plants.

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (Agriculture) report they attack cotton, pome fruits, stone fruits, fig, grape, kurrajong, strawberry, vegetables, wisteria, dahlia and violets.

[4] In winter, they find shelter in dark shady places such as under compost, timber, hedges, and fence palings.