Plataspidae

Plataspidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Plataspidae: /pləˈtæspəˌdaɪ/

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Images

Summary

Plataspidae are a family of shield bugs native to the Old World, recognized for their distinctive beetle-like form and primarily herbivorous diet; they have a few introduced species that can be pests in agriculture.

Physical Characteristics

2-20 mm, beetlelike, strongly convex, often as broad or broader than long, antennae appear 4-segmented, scutellum covers abdomen completely, wings very long and folding under scutellum, tarsi 2-segmented.

Identification Tips

Look for their distinctive broad and convex shape, which may appear similar to beetles.

Habitat

Primarily tropical and subtropical areas, with some species found in temperate regions.

Distribution

Native to the Old World, primarily found in southern Asia; some species introduced to the New World and Pacific islands, such as Hawaii.

Diet

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on plants in the Fabaceae family, some subsisting on fungi.

Life Cycle

Females create a multilayered protective envelope in their distal midgut which is deposited at the same time as oviposition. Hatchlings feed on this capsule and its contents, establishing a necessary microbial symbiosis.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs and provide a protective envelope for the hatchlings, which they feed on initially.

Predators

Predatory ladybug larvae may prey on them; however, their social behavior may help protect them.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in plant communities and serve as a food source for predators.

Economic Impact

Megacopta cribraria has become a pest of soybeans in the southern United States after its introduction.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting
  • Hand collection

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol
  • Pinned specimens
  • Frozen specimens

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse them with common beetles due to their shape and appearance.

Tags

  • Plataspidae
  • shield bugs
  • hemipteran insects
  • herbivorous insects