Hyperaspidius insignis Casey, 1899
Casey, 1899
Hyperaspidius insignis is a small ( ) to North America. measure approximately 2.25–3.20 mm in length. The has been recorded from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Colorado, and Oklahoma. It is characterized by distinctive coloration: a with reddish-yellow spots, and black with yellow borders and discal spots. The Hyperaspidius belongs to the tribe Hyperaspidini, which comprises small, often inconspicuous lady beetles.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hyperaspidius insignis Casey, 1899: //ˌhaɪpərˌæspɪˈdaɪəs ɪnˈsɪɡnɪs//
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Identification
The combination of small size (under 3.5 mm), with reddish spots, and black with yellow border and discal spot distinguishes this from most other North . Within the Hyperaspidius, identification to species requires examination of these specific color pattern elements. Similar small in the genera Hyperaspis or Brachiacantha may be confused but generally differ in pronotal and elytral spot patterns.
Appearance
are small, measuring 2.25–3.20 mm in length. The is with reddish-yellow spots. The are black with a yellow border and a discal spot. The overall body form is compact and rounded, typical of the .
Distribution
Recorded from western North America: Alberta and Saskatchewan in Canada, and Colorado and Oklahoma in the United States. The limited number of records (4 observations in iNaturalist) suggests it may be uncommon or undercollected.
Similar Taxa
- Hyperaspidius other species share small size and similar body form; distinguished by specific color pattern of and
- Hyperaspis speciesSame tribe Hyperaspidini; generally similar in size and form but differ in pronotal spot patterns and elytral markings
More Details
Taxonomic note
The was described by Thomas L. Casey in 1899. The Hyperaspidius is part of the tribe Hyperaspidini, which contains small, often dull-colored or patterned that are frequently overlooked in favor of larger, more conspicuous species.