Hawthorn Shieldbug vs Neotropical Cotton Stainer

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hawthorn Shieldbug Neotropical Cotton Stainer
Scientific Name Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale Dysdercus peruvianus
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Acanthosomatidae Pyrrhocoridae
Size 13-17 mm 12-17 mm
Habitat Underground Heathland
Diet Fruit Feeders Seed Feeders
Regions Europe Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Hawthorn Shieldbug

A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.

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Did You Know?

Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'

Neotropical Cotton Stainer

A bright red and black seed bug that feeds on cotton bolls and malvaceous plants. Its feeding stains cotton fibers, reducing commercial value.

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Did You Know?

Its vivid red and black warning colors advertise chemical defenses that make it taste repulsive to bird predators.