#parental care

Shield-backed Bug - Pachycoris klugii

Pachycoris klugii (Heteroptera - Scutelleridae) is a common species in Mexico and Central America that in the past has been misidentified as P. torridus. It is an aposematic species that is brightly colored, with metallic green, and yellow, orange, or red spots. Extensive variation was observed in the color pattern of adults.

There have been several reports of maternal care in Heteroptera, according to Wilson (1979) it corresponds to a subsocial behavior in which the parent offers shelter with its body, carries the nymphs around on its back or venter, or simply stands close by. Maternal behavior was related to egg parasitism, habitat and host plant phenology.

References: [1] - [2]

Photo credit: ©Eduardo Axel Recillas Bautista | Locality: Hidalgo, Mexico (2008)