Phytocoris arizonensis
This record describes Phytocoris arizonensis (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
...Distinguished from other species of the rostratus group by the large left genital tubercle, coarse serrations on the right sclerotized process of the vesica, and left process of vesica fully sclerotized, with small spines on the outer surface. The ratio of eye length to width of vertex is less than or equal to 1.10:1 for males. This species looks very similar to several other members of the rostratus group (especially P. coronadoi and P. aesculinus ), so it's critical to check that left genital tubercle.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Miridae (Plant Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Mirinae
- Tribe
- Mirini
- Genus
- Phytocoris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Quercus turbinella and Quercus oblongifolia
Geographic Range
Reported throughout AZ, in middle to higher elevations where its oak host occurs.
Seasonal Activity
Reported from June 11 to Sept 14.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phytocoris arizonensis Stonedahl, 1988 "Named for its widespread occurrence in the state of Arizona."
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris arizonensis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Phytocoris arizonensis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris arizonensis
What is Phytocoris arizonensis?
Phytocoris arizonensis is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris arizonensis?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Male | 4.70-6.16 mm to tip of wings. |
| Female | 5.02-5.13 mm. |
How do you identify Phytocoris arizonensis?
...Distinguished from other species of the rostratus group by the large left genital tubercle, coarse serrations on the right sclerotized process of the vesica, and left process of vesica fully sclerotized, with small spines on the outer surface. The ratio of eye length to width of vertex is less than or equal to 1.10:1 for males. This species looks very similar to several other members of the rostratus group (especially P. coronadoi and P. aesculinus ), so it's critical to check that left genital tubercle.
Where is Phytocoris arizonensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Quercus turbinella and Quercus oblongifolia |
| Range | Reported throughout AZ, in middle to higher elevations where its oak host occurs. |
When is Phytocoris arizonensis active?
Phytocoris arizonensis: seasonal activity - Reported from June 11 to Sept 14..