Hyperaspis lateralis

Mulsant, 1850

Lateral Sigil Lady Beetle, lateral lady beetle

Hyperaspis lateralis is a small in the , to Central and North America. measure 2.50–3.80 mm and exhibit in coloration: males have margins and areas, while females have entirely black pronota. The is one of several Hyperaspis known to on .

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 and pronotal margins; females are less readily identifiable and may require examination of associated males or . The small size (under 4 mm) and variable elytral patterning separate it from larger .

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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 (), though specific 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 for definitive separation.
  • Coccinellidae larvaeHyperaspis are waxy and superficially resemble or ; they move quickly when disturbed, unlike their sedentary .

More Details

Taxonomic note

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

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