Hyperaspis nigrosuturalis
Blatchley, 1918
Hyperaspis nigrosuturalis is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae. reach approximately 3.40 mm in length. The exhibits in coloration: males have yellow and yellow lateral margins on the pronotum, while females have black heads and entirely black pronota. The are red with black margins in both sexes. It is native to North America, with records from Florida.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hyperaspis nigrosuturalis: /haɪˌpɛrˈæspɪs ˌniˌgroʊˌsuːtʊˈrælɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
measure about 3.40 mm. in and pronotal coloration distinguishes males (yellow head, yellow lateral pronotal margin) from females (black head, black pronotum). Red with black margins. Larvae produce conspicuous white waxy secretions from lateral glands, resembling mealybugs or scale insects.
Distribution
North America; recorded from Florida.
Behavior
Larvae are active of scale insects. When disturbed, larvae move quickly, unlike the sedentary mealybugs they resemble. overwinter in protected locations beneath bark or in leaf litter.
Ecological Role
of scale insects, including crapemyrtle bark scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae).
Human Relevance
Beneficial agent for insect pests. Larvae are frequently misidentified as pests and killed by applications intended for scale insects.
Similar Taxa
- Hyperaspis spp.Other in share waxy larvae and black-with-red-spots coloration; specific spot patterns and distribution distinguish species.
- Mealybugs (Pseudococcidae)Larvae superficially resemble mealybugs due to white waxy coating; distinguished by faster movement when disturbed and predatory near sacs.
Misconceptions
Larvae are commonly mistaken for mealybugs or other plant pests due to their white waxy appearance, leading to unnecessary applications that kill these beneficial .