2 for id

turntostone · #1 (**permalink**) 03-05-2011, 07:01 PM

Can anyone help with these 2 imaged at Cowley, Middx

1. Shield bug?

2. unidentified beetle

thanks for ant help
Gordon

Klaas Reißmann · #2 (**permalink**) 03-05-2011, 07:04 PM

Hi,

no.2 is a leaf beetle (family Chrysomelidae) of the subfamily Donaciinae, genus donacia. It is not easy to tell by this photo and many Donacia are not easy to identify, but I think it is Donacia simplex. to say it for sure I would need the specimen or much better photos.

Regards
Klaas

Jason Green · #3 (**permalink**) 03-05-2011, 07:41 PM

Evening Gordon,

The first is Coreus marginatus - a Squashbug.

Take care,

Jason

turntostone · #4 (**permalink**) 04-05-2011, 06:22 AM

Thanks to you both.

Getting to see lots of insects etc about.

Its just a matter of getting the right books to be
able to ID them. [or at least try, I know its not
goiing to be easy] LOL

Gordon

Jason Green · #5 (**permalink**) 04-05-2011, 07:19 AM

Literature - there's a key to the species of Seed, Leaf and Flea Beetles of the British Isles by Dave Hubble due to be published this year. That will offer a basic guide if used with photographs - much better with a microscope/specimens.

For the Squashbug - Google 'British Bugs Coreus marginatus' and see the BB site.

Klaas Reißmann · #6 (**permalink**) 04-05-2011, 01:38 PM

Sorry, but the right book is not enough, it is just the beginning. Much more than the right book you need a lot of experience to get to the species.

Regards
Klaas