Shield bug

Pentatomoidea

This shield bug was collected by Charles Darwin during his voyage aboard HMS Beagle from 1831 to 1836. Considering its age and how far it has travelled, both in distance and time, the specimen is in remarkable condition. With the exception of the wing tips, the entire upper surface is marked by minute, darkly pigmented punctures. The function and evolution of these structures is yet to be investigated.

Collector: Charles Darwin
Australia, 1836

Darwin began to develop his ideas about evolution by natural selection during his time on HMS Beagle. However, as with many exploration voyages at this time, the Beagle’s principal aim was not to record natural history but to explore new territories and trade routes for the British Empire. Numerous specimens in natural history collections stem from such naval voyages, which had naturalists as part of their crews. This shield bug is one of many specimens collected by Darwin that are now held in this Museum’s collection.