Jewel Bug (specifically the Hibiscus Harlequin Bug nymph)

Found in coastal and sub-coastal areas of Australia and several Pacific islands, typically on Malvaceae family plants like Hibiscus, Cotton, and Kurrajong trees.

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on young shoots, flower buds, and seeds of their host plants.

Nymphs often congregate in groups for protection. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis. The iridescent metallic colors serve as a warning to predators (aposematism). Females are known to guard their egg clusters until they hatch.

They are minor agricultural pests, particularly for cotton crops and ornamental hibiscus. They are harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting, and they provide aesthetic value to ecosystems due to their striking coloration.