Hyperaspidius hardyi
Gordon, 1985
Hyperaspidius hardyi is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae, described by Gordon in 1985. The is known from California and is notable for its sexually dimorphic coloration, with males and females differing in and pronotum pigmentation. It is one of approximately 20 species in the Hyperaspidius, a group of minute lady beetles found primarily in the Americas.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hyperaspidius hardyi: /haɪpəˈræspɪdiəs ˈhɑːrdi.aɪ/
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Identification
are extremely small, measuring approximately 2.1 mm (males) and 2.2 mm (females). Males have a yellow and pronotum with a black basal area containing a yellow spot; females have a brownish yellow head and a dark brown pronotum with only the lateral one-fourth yellow. Both sexes have yellow with a dark brown sutural margin and a dark brown vitta (longitudinal stripe). in pronotal and head coloration distinguishes this from many .
Distribution
Recorded from California, United States. Distribution within North America appears restricted based on available records.
Similar Taxa
- Hyperaspidius speciesOther members of the share the minute size (under 3 mm) and general body plan, but H. hardyi is distinguished by the specific pattern of in and pronotum coloration described by Gordon (1985).
- Other CoccinellidaeThe extremely small size (<2.5 mm) and distinctive yellow-and-dark brown elytral pattern with vitta and sutural margin separate Hyperaspidius from most other North American lady beetle , which are generally larger and often have spotted rather than striped patterns.
More Details
Etymology
Named for one of the collectors of the type series.
Taxonomic history
Described by Robert D. Gordon in 1985 as part of his revisionary work on the Hyperaspidius.