Hyperaspis annexa

LeConte, 1852

Hyperaspis annexa is a small () to North America, with records from California. measure 2.0–2.75 mm and are characterized by black with two vittae. Males have a yellow pronotal margin, sometimes black. The belongs to a whose are notable of , though specific relationships for this species remain undocumented.

Hyperaspis annexa by no rights reserved, uploaded by Jesse Rorabaugh. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyperaspis annexa: //haɪˈpɛɹ.ə.spɪs ænˈnɛk.sə//

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Identification

Distinguished from other North Hyperaspis by the specific pattern of two elytral vittae on a black background. The small size (2.0–2.75 mm) separates it from larger . Males with yellow pronotal margin differ from females where this character may be reduced or absent. Similar with striped elytral patterns include other Hyperaspis, but precise identification requires examination of or comparison with . , if found, would be covered in waxy secretions like other Hyperaspis, but specific larval descriptions for this species are not documented.

Images

Distribution

Recorded from California, North America. GBIF records confirm presence in North America. Specific microhabitat preferences within California are not documented.

Similar Taxa

Hyperaspis lateralisSimilar small size and striped elytral pattern; distinguished by details of spot arrangement and male
Hyperaspis undulataOverlapping distribution in western North America; elytral pattern differs in stripe width and continuity

More Details

Taxonomic note

Described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1852, this remains poorly known beyond the original description and scattered collection records. The Hyperaspis contains approximately 90 species in North America, many with limited biological data.

Generic biology

While specific data for H. annexa are lacking, are well-documented as specialized of (, ). of Hyperaspis produce copious from glands, providing protection from and other predators while foraging on colonies.