Catacanthus incarnatus
| Distribution: | Madagascar, South and Southeast Asia, Oceania |
| Size: | 25-30mm |
| Diet: | Sap, flowers, buds & nectar of various plants |
Shield bugs are, somewhat unkindly, referred to as ‘stink bugs’ by Americans. Whilst this term is a bit mean, it’s also quite accurate. You see, when trying to deter predators (or Americans), shield bugs can excrete a foul-smelling liquid from a gland in their abdomen. In this respect, they’re a bit like skunks, but much smaller and with more legs and no fur. Also, segmented bodies and antennae. And wings. Perhaps they’re not much like skunks after all. What a terrible analogy.
Take a closer look…
