Predatory-shield-bug

Guides

• Picromerus bidens

  spiny shieldbug, spiked shieldbug

  Picromerus bidens is a predatory shield bug in the family Pentatomidae, notable for its large size and distinctive spiny pronotal projections. It is univoltine, with summer dormancy (aestivation) ensuring synchronization of its life cycle with seasonal conditions. The species is native to the Palaearctic region but has been introduced to North America, where it has established populations. Both adults and nymphs are predatory, feeding primarily on insect larvae, and the species has been investigated as a potential biological control agent.

  predatory-shield-bugbiological-controlunivoltineaestivationPalaearcticintroduced-species

• Zicrona caerulea

  Blue Shieldbug, blue shield bug

  Zicrona caerulea is a small predatory shield bug in the family Pentatomidae, subfamily Asopinae. Adults measure 5–8 mm and display a striking uniform metallic blue-green coloration, with immatures showing red abdomens with black markings. This univoltine species is a documented predator of leaf beetles (Altica spp.), beetle larvae, and moth caterpillars, though it has also been observed feeding on plants. It overwinters as an adult and produces new adults from July onwards.

  predatory-shield-bugmetallic-colorationunivoltinebiological-controlAsopinaePentatomidaeHemipterainsect-predatoroverwintering-adultfacultative-phytophagy