This is a southern European and Asian species which has been imported periodically to Ireland in fresh produce in the past. It is a striking medium-sized black and red shieldbug which cannot be confused with any Irish species. There is also a cream/orange morph which is less common. There are several similar species which may also be imported, so it should be checked by an expert for reliable identification.
Distribution in Ireland: Capable of arriving sporadically in anywhere in Ireland.
Habitat: Elsewhere, it can be found in wide variety of habitats including brownfield sites, dry grassland, scrub and coastal dunes.
Habits: A herbivorous species which feeds on a variety of brassicas, individuals in its native range typically inhabit herbaceous vegetation and grasses close to the ground, where their striking colouration can make them relatively easy to find at times. Ireland’s climate is likely to be unsuitable for populations of this species to persist here, but it has established in southern England and may do so here eventually due to climate change.
