HEMIPTERA > HETEROPTERA > PENTATOMORPHA > COREOIDEA > Coreidae

The Dock Bug [Coreus marginatus] is the most common and widespread leatherbug species in Britain, and the bug that I see the most when out looking for insects in general.

It's a large, 12-15mm, species with a broad abdomen, typically with a mottled reddish-brown, although variable, colouration. The head, pronotum, scutellum and wing cases can vary from pale beige to mid grey-brown through to the more common darker colour, all finely marked with small dark spots or punctures that gives it a peppered appearance. The connexivum is much the same colour as the rest of the body, but is dull-orange banded. The femurs of the legs are brownish, but the tibia and tarsi are more reddish-orange. The first and fourth segments of the antennae are reddish-brown, but the second and third segments are a much brighter orange-red. The two small projections between the antennae are diagnostic of the species.

There is one generation per year with adults mating and females laying their eggs in the spring. The nymphs are curious little creatures with a diamond-shaped abdomen and over-sized antennae. Their form and colour vary and sometimes it's quite difficult to determine the instar stage, so it's best to simply segregate them as early, mid and late (final). New adults usually start appearing from August. They primarily feed on Broad--leaved Dock, but can also be found on many other plants as well as shrubs and small trees, especially berry-producing species such as Bramble.

They occur in virtually all habitats, but seem to prefer open rather than enclosed locations, so are more likely to be found along hedgerows or woodland and parkland borders.

The Coreidae 'family account' is linked to the Box Bug thumbnail image on the Hemiptera home page.