Hyperaspis connectens
This record describes Hyperaspis connectens (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures According to Gordon (as discussed here ): Broad yellow areas on the sides of the pronotum (the part between the head and the wings) and a pair of spots on each side of the elytra. The spots are usually- but not always- connected. No other ladybug in our area has connected pairs of spots like this. Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch Brownsville, Cameron Co., Tex, VIII-25
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Hyperaspidini
- Genus
- Hyperaspis (Sigil Lady Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
across s. US (s. CA to s. FL to NC) / south to S. Amer. / W. Indies - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: connectens (L). "connecting", no doubt referring to the spots on the elytra.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hyperaspis connectens. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Hyperaspis connectens (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Devin Carroll; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperaspis connectens
What is Hyperaspis connectens?
Hyperaspis connectens is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hyperaspis connectens?
Length: 2.5-3 mm
How do you identify Hyperaspis connectens?
Gordon's figures According to Gordon (as discussed here ): Broad yellow areas on the sides of the pronotum (the part between the head and the wings) and a pair of spots on each side of the elytra. The spots are usually- but not always- connected. No other ladybug in our area has connected pairs of spots like this.
Where is Hyperaspis connectens found?
Range: across s. US (s. CA to s. FL to NC) / south to S. Amer. / W. Indies - Map