Photos - Nature - Flora and Fauna
Snug as a bug on a pole?
<extract from NSW Agriculture>
"Jewel bugs (family Scutelleridae) are closely related to stink bugs and also produce offensive odours when disturbed. The wings are hidden beneath a large convex cover, the scutellum. This is frequently gaudily coloured, giving the group its common name.
Most jewel bugs do little harm to economic plants but attract attention by their bright colours and their habit of sheltering in groups.
Metallic shield bug, Scutiphora pedicellata, is commonly found sheltering in groups of 10–20 in leaf litter or under bark, particularly around the bases of native trees. It feeds on vegetative growth, as well as on fruits, which may shrivel and fall. It has been recorded as affecting native figs, fruit trees such as apricot, cherry, peach and pear, and grapes. It also infests garden plants, both exotic and native.
The adult is shield-shaped, about 14 mm long, and deep metallic green or blue, mottled with black on the upper surface. The front and side margins of the thorax and two spots on the upper surface of the body are bright red."
Metallic Shield Bug (Scutiphora Pedicellata)
