Perillus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
Superfamily: Pentatomoidea
Family: Pentatomidae
Subfamily: Asopinae
Genus: Perillus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Perillus: /pɛˈrɪl.lʊs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Biologia Centrali-Americana - Perillus circumcinctus by Bale & Danielsson; Bannwarth, Th.; Cambridge Scientific Instrument Company; Godman, Frederick Du Cane; Hanhart; Horman-Fisher, Maud; Knight, H.; Mintern Bros.; Purkiss, W.; Salvin, Osbert; Saunders, G. S.; Schlereth, M. v.; Sharp, M. A.; Taylor & Francis; Wilson, Edwin. Used under a Public domain license.

Stink Bug - Perillus strigipes, Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest, Felda, Florida by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Stink Bug - Perillus strigipes, Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest, Felda, Florida - 24268280543 by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Perillus strigipes 301585216 by Nick Bédard. Used under a CC0 license.

Perillus strigipes 301585232 by Nick Bédard. Used under a CC0 license.

Perillus exaptus by Bernie Paquette. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Perillus bioculatus, commonly known as the two-spotted stink bug or double-eyed soldier bug, is an effective predator of Colorado potato beetles found mainly in North America and introduced to other regions as a biological control measure.

Physical Characteristics

Perillus bioculatus has distinctive markings with two spots on its back, giving it the name 'two-spotted stink bug'.

Identification Tips

Look for the two prominent spots on the dorsal side of the body; adults typically have a robust body shape associated with predatory bugs.

Habitat

Prefers agricultural fields, especially those that grow potatoes, as well as gardens where Colorado potato beetles may be present.

Distribution

Native to North America; has been introduced to Eastern Europe and North India.

Diet

Both larvae and adults are specialized predators, primarily feeding on eggs and larvae of Colorado potato beetles.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages. The first instar larvae feed by sucking juices from potato stems before switching to predation.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs on the host plants where their larvae will have access to prey.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator of the Colorado potato beetle, it plays a significant role in controlling pest populations in agricultural settings.

Economic Impact

Utilized as a biological control agent against the Colorado potato beetle, thus reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Collecting Methods

Hand collection from infested plants
Using insect nets in agricultural areas

Preservation Methods

Killing jars with ethanol
Pinning specimens for display

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Perillus bioculatus with other stink bugs, but the two distinctive spots are key identifiers.