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Rhaphigaster nebulosa Mottled Shieldbug
Family: Pentatomidae

 A large shieldbug which has banded antennae and dark circular mottled markings on the wing membrane, although these are variable in extent. Requires careful separation from the recent arrival Halyomorpha halys. May superficially resemble Dolycoris baccarum, but lacks hairs. The forward pointing spine on the underside of the abdomen is a unique feature amongst British Pentatomidae.

A polyphagous species associated with a range of decidous trees. First recorded in Britain from the London area in 2010, following population expansion on the near continent. Since found to be well-established in parts of London, with further records from Kent.

 Adult: All year
Length 14-16 mm


 Rhaphigaster nebulosa
Adult: south London (September 2011) ©Tristan Bantock
Rhaphigaster nebulosa Rhaphigaster nebulosa
Adult: south London (September 2011) ©Tristan Bantock

 		Adult: south London (September 2011) ©Penny Frith
Rhaphigaster nebulosa Rhaphigaster nebulosa
Adult: south London (September 2011) ©Tristan Bantock

 		Early instar nymph: south London (July 2011) ©Penny Frith
Rhaphigaster nebulosa Rhaphigaster nebulosa
Late instar nymph: south London (August 2011) ©Penny Frith

 Late instar nymph: south London (September 2013) ©Tristan Bantock