Hyperaspidius marginatus

(Gaines, 1933)

Hyperaspidius marginatus is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae, first described by Gaines in 1933. measure 1.75-2.40 mm in length. The exhibits in pronotal coloration. It is known from Texas and potentially broader North American distribution, though records remain sparse.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyperaspidius marginatus: //ˌhaɪpərəsˈpɪdiːəs ˌmɑːrdʒɪˈneɪtəs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from by the combination of: small size (under 2.5 mm); yellow or brownish yellow ; pronotum with variable patterning (reddish brown with nebulous spots in males, or dark brown with yellow lateral border in some females); and dark with yellow vitta. Examination of genitalia may be required for definitive identification from similar Hyperaspidius .

Distribution

Recorded from Texas, United States. GBIF indicates presence in North America generally, though specific locality records beyond Texas are poorly documented. The likely occupies regions within the southern United States based on the type locality.

Similar Taxa

Other Hyperaspidius speciesSmall size and general overlap; precise identification requires examination of subtle color pattern differences and potentially genitalia.
Hyperaspis speciesSimilar small lady beetles with spotted or patterned ; Hyperaspidius generally smaller and with different pronotal structure.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Described by Gaines in 1933. The Hyperaspidius is a small group within Coccinellidae, sometimes considered closely related to Hyperaspis but distinguished by morphological features of the mouthparts and genitalia.

Specimen Rarity

Only two observations recorded in iNaturalist as of source date, indicating the is rarely encountered or underreported, or potentially restricted in distribution.