Helmeted Squash Bug
Euthochtha galeator
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Coreoidea
- Family: Coreidae
- Subfamily: Coreinae
- Tribe: Acanthocerini
- Genus: Euthochtha
- Species: galeator
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Euthochtha galeator: /juːˈθɒkθə ˌɡæliˈeɪtɔːr/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Euthochtha galeator, commonly known as the helmeted squash bug, is a species of leaf-footed bug in the family Coreidae. It is characterized by its unique morphology, particularly the features of nymphs and male adults, and is common in the eastern United States.
Physical Characteristics
14.5-17 mm in size; all five nymphal instars characterized by spines, mottling, and a dilated 3rd antennal segment. Males possess a white- or cream-colored spur or flap on the posterodorsal corner of the side of the thorax (metepimeron).
Identification Tips
The only coreid bug in the eastern US with nymphs that have a dilated 3rd antennal segment; males exhibit a unique thoracic flap.
Habitat
Common in low, moist, weedy sections of woods, but also found in weedy fields.
Distribution
Eastern United States, notably in Texas, Florida, Maine, and Minnesota.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of wild and cultivated plants, potentially including roses and citrus fruits.
Life Cycle
Undergoes five nymphal instars before reaching adulthood; newly hatched nymphs are typically found in weedy areas.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs, which are also associated with the habitat of the host plants.
Ecosystem Role
May act as a pest in dooryard situations, particularly affecting ornamentals and cultivated plants.
Economic Impact
Can injure fruits and ornamentals, potentially impacting gardening and agriculture.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Netting
- Visual search in habitat
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Alcohol preservation
- Drying
Evolution
Part of the genus Euthochtha, which contains only one described species, evolutionary relationships are primarily localized within the Coreidae family.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coreidae species
- Leaf-footed bugs
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for other similar-looking coreid bugs due to its distinctive morphological features.
Tags
- Hemiptera
- Coreidae
- Euthochtha galeator
- pests
- entomology