Hyperaspis bensonica
Casey, 1908
Hyperaspis bensonica is a small in the to southwestern North America. measure 1.90–2.90 mm and exhibit distinctive coloration: males have and pronotal margins, and the bear a discal spot and lateral vitta. Like other members of the Hyperaspis, this is a of . The produce waxy secretions that serve as protective , causing them to be frequently mistaken for or scale insects.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hyperaspis bensonica: /hʌɪpərˈaspɪs bɛnˈsɒnɪkə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
distinguished from other Hyperaspis by specific spot and vitta pattern on combined with male pronotal coloration. covered in waxy secretion, resembling ; distinguishable by faster movement when disturbed and predatory near colonies.
Habitat
Associated with supporting ; found in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States.
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, California, and Texas.
Diet
of (), including and stages.
Life Cycle
with , larval, pupal, and stages. develop through autumn, pupate, and emerge as adults. Adults overwinter in protected locations beneath bark or in leaf litter, returning to plants in spring to reproduce.
Behavior
produce waxy secretions from glands that reduce by and other enemies. and larvae actively forage on colonies. Larvae move quickly when disturbed, unlike the sedentary they resemble.
Ecological Role
agent of ; contributes to natural suppression of on .
Human Relevance
for garden and landscape pest management. Frequently misidentified and killed due to larval resemblance to pests. Important of such as crapemyrtle bark scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae).
Similar Taxa
- Hyperaspis spp.Other in share black-and-spotted color pattern and -feeding ; distinguished by specific spot arrangement and pronotal markings
- Mealybugs (Pseudococcidae)Hyperaspis frequently mistaken for due to waxy coating; distinguished by faster movement and predatory location near colonies
- Scymnus spp.Other small ; Hyperaspis distinguished by elytral spot pattern and larger average size
Misconceptions
are commonly misidentified as or and destroyed with , eliminating a valuable agent.
More Details
Conservation concern
threatened by broad-spectrum use targeting ; educational efforts needed to prevent misidentification and unnecessary mortality of
Taxonomic note
Described by Thomas L. Casey in 1908; part of the diverse North fauna of Hyperaspis, a containing numerous -feeding