Graphosoma italicum italicum, or the European Striped Shield Bug, is a common shield bug found in Europe, characterized by its bright red and black striped body and shield-like shape. It is harmless to humans and feeds on the sap of plants, preferring members of the Apiaceae family like dill and fennel. This insect's striking coloration is a form of aposematism, warning predators that it is unpalatable.
Coloration: Bright red with distinct black stripes running down its body.
Size: Typically measures 8 to 12 millimeters in length.
Shape: Has a broad, shield-shaped body.
Habitat: Found in sunny, warm meadows and fields, often on plants like dill, fennel, and other Apiaceae.
Behavior and Diet
Aposematism: The bold red and black stripes serve as a warning to predators of its foul taste.
Plant-Based Diet: Feeds on the sap of various plants, particularly preferring seeds and umbels of Apiaceae plants.
Reproduction: The nymphs are a brownish color and undergo five molts before becoming adults.
Other Names and Significance
Common Names: Also known as the Italian Striped-Bug or Minstrel Bug.
Ecosystem Role: Plays a role as a food source for other animals and helps monitor the health of plant communities.
Taxonomic Note
Historically, Graphosoma italicum was sometimes considered a subspecies of Graphosoma lineatum. However, it is now generally recognized as a distinct species, with G. i. italicum being its nominate subspecies.
