Hyperaspis lateralis

Mulsant, 1850

Lateral Sigil Lady Beetle, lateral lady beetle

Hyperaspis lateralis is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae, native to Central and North America. measure 2.50–3.80 mm and exhibit in pronotum coloration: males have yellow margins and lateral areas, while females have entirely black pronota. The is one of several Hyperaspis known to prey on scale insects.

Hyperaspis lateralis by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Hyperaspis lateralis by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Hyperaspis lateralis by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyperaspis lateralis: /haɪˈpɛrəsˌpɪs læˈtɛrəlɪs/

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Identification

Distinguished from other Hyperaspis by the male's yellow and lateral pronotal margins; females are less readily identifiable and may require examination of associated males or genitalia. The small size (under 4 mm) and variable elytral patterning separate it from larger lady beetle .

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Distribution

Central America and North America. In North America, recorded from Montana to New Mexico, west to British Columbia and southern California, plus Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. Also present in Alberta, Canada.

Diet

As with other Hyperaspis , likely predatory on scale insects (Coccoidea), though specific prey records for H. lateralis are not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Hyperaspis speciesShare similar small size and general body form; may require examination of male pronotal coloration or genitalia for definitive separation.
  • Coccinellidae larvaeHyperaspis larvae are waxy and superficially resemble or scale insects; they move quickly when disturbed, unlike their sedentary prey.

More Details

Taxonomic note

Described by Mulsant in 1850. The specific epithet 'lateralis' refers to the lateral coloration of the male pronotum.

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