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UK Nature  > Bugs  > Elasmostethus interstinctus

  • Adult
  • Nymph, 5th and final instar



Scientific Name:   Elasmostethus interstinctus
Common Name:   Birch Shield Bug

Elasmostethus interstinctus, more commonly known as the Birch Shield Bug, has a length of 8-11mm, and is a distinctive species, although confusion with the larger and more elongate Hawthorn Shield Bug A. haemorrhoidale is possible. The lateral extensions of the pronotum are smaller in E. intersinctus, and are not marked with red, while the scutellum of A. haemorrhoidale is green, and the abdomen frequently red-tipped.

This species overwinters as an adult, emerging and mating in the spring. The larvae feed principally on birch, but may also be found on hazel and aspen; the new generation is complete by August. Common and widespread in mixed birch woodlands across Britain and Ireland.










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