25/08/2026
โจ๐ These incredible little bugs are Hibiscus Harlequin Bugs (Tectocoris diophthalmus), also known as Cotton Harlequin Bugs.
The metallic electric-blue bodies with brilliant red and orange markings make them look like tiny pieces of jewellery! ๐โค๏ธ
Theyโre actually true bugs rather than beetles, and these are the nymphs โ hence the impressive gathering all clustered together on the plant.
Theyโre commonly found on hibiscus and other members of the mallow family, where they use their piercing mouthparts to feed on plant sap.
I love discovering these little flashes of colour tucked away amongst the greenery โ another reminder of just how much incredible life is happening right in the garden! ๐ฟ๐โจ