Scientific name: Oncopeltus fasciatus. These nymphs (non-adults) should do no harm to your plant which is a Stapelia, and is in the Milkweed family. The adults that they will eventually metamorphose into however may start sucking the juices from your plant. This would be the time to eradicate them. Your Stapelia is a succulent, and most succulents are sensitive to various insecticides. I would recommend trying to just physically remove and dispose of them. I have no idea how fast the larvae move but you might be able to take a length of duct tape and curl it around with the sticky side out like you would use to remove pet hair or lint from clothing and just stick it to the bugs, throw the tape away! A blast from a garden hose might work too but I don’t know how hard they can hang on or if they can find their way home either. If the tape or water doesn’t work, try your local cooperative extension for help at http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/problems/insects.html The information on these critters is fascinating and you can read all about them at: http://bugguide.net/node/view/504
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