INSECTS

HEMIPTERA / SQUASH BUGS

Coreidae is a large family of mainly sap-sucking insects in the Hemipteran suborder Heteroptera. They usually have oval-shaped bodies, antennae composed of four segments and stink glands. The fore-wings have numerous veins in the membrane.

In former times the Box Bug Gonocerus acuteangulatus was only known in Britain at Box Hill in Surrey where they fed on box trees. When this species shifted to other foodplants such as buckthorn and hawthorn its range increased and is now seen in many other areas. The adults hibernate under bark and in cracks during winter. Adult length 11-14mm.

The Dock Bug Coreus marginatus is a large, mottled, reddish-brown bug with a broad, oval abdomen. Two small projections between the antennae are diagnostic. Adults mate and lay eggs during spring. Often found in large groups on bramble along woodland paths. The nymphs feed on dock and other associated plants.