Scarab Shieldbug
Thyreocoris scarabaeoides
This record describes Thyreocoris scarabaeoides (species). Recorded family: Thyreocoridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 to 4 mm. A small metallic black or bronze shieldbug with a very large scutellum which covers most of the abdomen. Associated with violets growing on dry sandy or chalky soils in sunny situations (including coastal dunes), where it can be found in moss or litter. Locally distributed across much of southern Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Thyreocoris scarabaeoides: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyreocoris_scarabaeoides.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Thyreocoridae
- Genus
- Thyreocoris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with violets growing on dry sandy or chalky soils in sunny situations (including coastal dunes), where it can be found in moss or litter.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Locally distributed across much of southern Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Thyreocoris scarabaeoides. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Scarab Shieldbug (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarab Shieldbug
What is Scarab Shieldbug?
Scarab Shieldbug (Thyreocoris scarabaeoides) is a species in the family Thyreocoridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Scarab Shieldbug?
3 to 4 mm. A small metallic black or bronze shieldbug with a very large scutellum which covers most of the abdomen.
Where is Scarab Shieldbug found?
Habitat: Associated with violets growing on dry sandy or chalky soils in sunny situations (including coastal dunes), where it can be found in moss or litter.
When is Scarab Shieldbug active?
Scarab Shieldbug: seasonal activity - Adult: All year..