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Spiked shieldbug

Spiked shieldbug

Picromerus bidens

A species of Picromerus, Also known as Spined stink bug, Spiny shield bug

The spiked shieldbug (Picromerus bidens) is identifiable by its shape resembling a spiked shield. The "bidens" literally translates to "with two teeth" from Latin, referring to the two thorn-like spines coming from it. It can be a colorful insect that varies from light to dark brown and sometimes becoming blue. This makes it a fairly pretty bug.

General Info About Spiked shieldbug
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Attributes of Spiked shieldbug
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
forest; heathland; garden; chalk downland; damp flower-rich meadow
Adult Food Sources
Caterpillars, beetles, grubs, other soft-bodied insects, arachnids
Larva Food Source
Aphids, caterpillars, larvae of other insects, beetle larvae, moth larvae
Non-poisonous
The Spiked shieldbug is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Spiked shieldbug feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The Spiked shieldbug typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Spiked shieldbug
It has a wide distribution in the Palaearctic, from 64°N to North Africa and from the British Isles to China. It has also been introduced, probably more than once, to North America.
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Distribution Area of Spiked shieldbug
Canada
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Appearance of Spiked shieldbug
Picromerus bidens is a large (1.2 - 1.4 cm long) shieldbug. It shows a thick rostrum directed away from head. Body colour is quite variable, generally light to dark brown or bluish, with red-brown antennae and legs and two unmistakable thorn-like brown projections on the sides of the pronotum. Front femurs are armed with a ventral spine distally. The early instar nymphs are commonly reddish, while the final instar nymphs are greyish black, with banded antennae and legs.
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How to Identify Spiked shieldbug?

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Life Cycle of Spiked shieldbug
Egg The egg phase of spiked shieldbug is characterized by tiny, often barrel-shaped eggs laid in clusters. These are usually deposited on the underside of leaves and may be variously colored.
Nymph During the nymphal stages, spiked shieldbug undergo gradual metamorphosis, resembling miniature adults but lacking fully developed wings. They molt several times, increasing in size and developing wing pads.
Adult Emerging as adults, spiked shieldbug display fully developed wings and reach sexual maturity. The body is hardened and pigmented, showcasing the species' distinctive shield shape and coloration.
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Predators of Adult Spiked shieldbug
Birds, rodents, spiders, predatory insects, bats
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Interesting Facts About Spiked shieldbug
Spiked shieldbug communicates with conspecifics through vibrations they produce on the plants they inhabit.
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Scientific Classification of Spiked shieldbug
Tips for Finding Spiked shieldbug
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Youth Habitat of Spiked shieldbug
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Spiked shieldbug
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Spiked shieldbug
Using a food bait composite that incorporates fruits or crops, as spiked shieldbug is known for feeding on a variety of plants, which may attract them for study or monitoring.
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Habitat Preferences of Spiked shieldbug Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of spiked shieldbug are typically found on the underside of leaves, sheltered from predators and elements. Nymphs, resembling adults but smaller and without fully developed wings, can be located on various plants, often in fields or gardens where they feed and grow. For adult spiked shieldbug, look in a wide range of habitats including woody, shrubby areas, and agricultural fields. Adults often perch on stems or leaves of their host plants; during colder months, they might be found hiding in crevices or under bark to overwinter.
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How and Where Can You Find Spiked shieldbug at Different Life Stages
Egg Spiked shieldbug eggs are often laid in clusters on the underside of leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves of plants, especially those showing signs of insect feeding.
Nymph Spiked shieldbug nymphs are more active and can be seen on both sides of leaves or stems. Look for them by checking the foliage of host plants, turning over leaves, and searching near the food sources they prefer.
Adult Spiked shieldbug adults are more mobile and visible. They can be found on or near their host plants, often sunning themselves on the tops of leaves or stems. Check plants during the warmest part of the day when spiked shieldbug is likely to be most active.
Are Spiked shieldbug harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Spiked shieldbug
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Nymphs
Diets
Caterpillars, Beetle Larvae
Spiked shieldbug, both as a nymph and as an adult, engages in predation primarily to sustain itself. It has evolved specialized piercing and sucking mouthparts to effectively target pests such as caterpillars and beetle larvae. Spiked shieldbug's hunting strategy not only satiates its hunger but also inadvertently aids in the control of pest populations in its habitat.
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