Hyperaspis proba

(Say, 1826)

esteemed lady beetle, esteemed sigil lady beetle

Hyperaspis proba, commonly known as the esteemed , is a small of lady beetle in the . It is to North America with a recorded range extending from Maine to South Carolina and westward to South Dakota and western Texas. measure approximately 2–3 mm in length and exhibit in pronotal coloration.

Hyperaspis proba by Jacy Lucier. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Hyperaspis proba 207503821 by Julia Pupko. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyperaspis proba: //haɪˈpɛrəs.pɪs ˈproʊ.bə//

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Identification

Distinguished from other Hyperaspis and small by the specific pattern of three spots on the combined with the sexually pronotal coloration. The small size (2–3 mm) and the particular arrangement of or red elytral spots help separate it from similar species such as other Hyperaspis with different spot patterns or slightly larger .

Images

Appearance

are small, measuring 2–3 mm in length. The shows distinct : males have a margin and area, while females have a black anterior margin with yellow lateral areas. The bear three yellow or red spots. The overall body form is compact and typical of small .

Distribution

Recorded from North America, specifically from Maine south to South Carolina, and west to South Dakota and western Texas. Additional records include the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Québec.

Similar Taxa

Other Hyperaspis speciesShare similar small size and general body plan, but differ in spot number, arrangement, and pronotal coloration patterns
Small Coccinellidae (e.g., some Scymnus or Stethorus)Overlap in size range but differ in elytral spot patterns and pronotal

More Details

Sexual dimorphism

The distinct difference in pronotal coloration between males and females is a notable feature of this , with males showing more extensive markings on the .