Tortoise Bug

Eurygaster testudinaria sensu stricto

This record describes Eurygaster testudinaria sensu stricto (species). Recorded family: Scutelleridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.

Identification and Appearance

Tortoise Bug - Eurygaster testudinaria sensu stricto

Length 9 to 11 mm. A fairly large shieldbug, the two Eurygaster species are often known as Tortoise Bugs. The ground colour and intensity of the markings are variable. In adult E. maura the second antennal segment is approximately twice as long as the third, whereas in adult E. testudinaria the second antennal segment is less than twice as long as the third segment. Genital examination is necessary to differentiate this species from E. maura -- if this has not been done, please record as Eurygaster (cf) testudinaria (meaning 'likely to be'). Eurygaster maura is very similar and can only be reliably separated from E. testudinaria by genital examination. Determination of this species requires genital examination. Nymphs feed on grasses between May and August, becoming adult from June. Previously uncommon, it is now widespread in southern Britain and Ireland in and is expanding its range northwards. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Scutellerideae/e_testudinaria.html No additional images available for this species.

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Family: Scutelleridae
Genus: Eurygaster

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Dry and damp grasslands.

Seasonal Activity

Adult: All year.

Diet and Behavior

Life History

Nymphs feed on grasses between May and August, becoming adult from June.

Additional species information

Recorded status

Previously uncommon, it is now widespread in southern Britain and Ireland in and is expanding its range northwards.

About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group

Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Eurygaster testudinaria sensu stricto. 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.

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