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giant shield bug
Agapophyta sp.
-2.56302, 140.504
Field Notes
Description:
A "giant shield bug" of the genus Agapophyta (Family Tessaratomidae). Perhaps Agapophyta viridula or A. similis. "Tessaratomids resemble large stink bugs (family Pentatomidae) and are sometimes quite colorful. Most tessaratomids are Old World, with only three species known from the Neotropics. The defensive chemicals of certain species can cause significant damage if they come into contact with human skin; they may also cause temporary blindness. All species are exclusively plant-eaters, some of major economic importance as agricultural pests. A few species are also consumed as human food in some countries."
Habitat:
Observed on vegetation in a large semi-urban yard and garden next to a disturbed patch of remnant forest.
Notes:
This shield bug moved as if it were agitated, rotating and jerking its appendages violently. It seems as if it might be infested with parasites (visible on the right of its "shield"). Another link http://www.papua-insects.nl/insect%20orders/Hemiptera/Heteroptera/natur…
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