Hyperaspis oculifera
Casey, 1908
Hyperaspis oculifera is a small in the , recorded from Arizona. measure 2.0–2.6 mm in length. The species exhibits in pronotal coloration: males have margins and areas of the , while females have a black anterior margin with yellow lateral areas. Each bears a yellow spot. As a member of the Hyperaspis, it is likely a of , though specific records for this species are not documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hyperaspis oculifera: /haɪˈpɛr.əs.pɪs ˌɒkjuˈlɪf.ərə/
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 the specific pattern of in pronotal coloration: males with margin and pronotal areas, females with black anterior margin and yellow lateral areas, combined with a single yellow spot on each . The small size (2.0–2.6 mm) and Arizona distribution help narrow identification. Separation from other small spotted requires examination of these specific color patterns.
Appearance
are small , 2.0–2.6 mm in length. The shows distinct : in males, the margin and areas are ; in females, the anterior margin is black with yellow lateral areas. The are black with a yellow spot on each. The overall body form is compact and typical of .
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, United States. The is part of the North fauna of the Hyperaspis.
Similar Taxa
- Other Hyperaspis speciesShare general body form, small size, and spotted coloration; distinguished by specific spot patterns and pronotal coloration details
- Generalist lady beetles in CoccinellidaeSimilar compact body shape and size range; require close examination of color patterns and for definitive identification
More Details
Taxonomic note
Described by Casey in 1908. The epithet 'oculifera' refers to the -like (ocellate) appearance of the elytral spots.
Genus context
Hyperaspis is a of small commonly known as 'waxy lady beetles' due to the waxy coating produced by . Larvae of Hyperaspis are of and are frequently mistaken for or other pests, leading to unnecessary mortality from . While this specific is well-documented for the genus, direct observations for H. oculifera specifically have not been published.