Phyllomorpha laciniata | |
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Scientific classification ![]() | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Hemiptera |
Suborder: | Heteroptera |
Family: | Coreidae |
Genus: | Phyllomorpha |
Species: | P. laciniata |
Binomial name | |
Phyllomorpha laciniata (Villers, 1789) | |
Synonyms | |
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Phyllomorpha laciniata (the golden egg bug) is a species of coreid bug, and one of only two members of the genus Phyllomorpha . They are specific to the host plant Paronychia argentea . [1] It is noted for its habit of laying its eggs on other members of its species, who act as mobile nests (oviposition substrate). These co-opted egg carriers provide more protection for the eggs than laying them at static locations on plant leaves or stems. [1] [2] While Phyllomorpha laciniata females can and do lay eggs on their host plant, the availability of suitable egg carriers seems to stimulate the deposition of mature eggs. [3] In the golden egg bug, all females carry other female’s eggs, and most males carry eggs they have not fertilized. [4]
This species was formally described by Charles Joseph de Villers in 1789, under the name Cimex laciniatus. [5]