Phytocoris borregoi
This record describes Phytocoris borregoi (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to P. catalinae in having unusually large eyes, narrow vertex (in males), and weakly convex frons for the rostratus group. Larger on average than P. catalinae (6.80 mm vs. 5.76 mm, respectively = midpoints of published ranges for males).
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
Collections have been from Larrea tridentata and Prosopis velutina or Prosopis glandulosa (= Prosopis juliflora in older records).
Geographic Range
Sonora and Mojave deserts, CA–NV–AZ
Seasonal Activity
April to November
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Named for the type locality, Borrego, CA.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris borregoi. 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 borregoi (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris borregoi
What is Phytocoris borregoi?
Phytocoris borregoi is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris borregoi?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Male | 5.72–7.88 mm |
| Female | 6.37–7.02 mm Note: most males are on the higher end, above 7.0 mm (J.T. Botz, based on specimens collected). |
How do you identify Phytocoris borregoi?
Similar to P. catalinae in having unusually large eyes, narrow vertex (in males), and weakly convex frons for the rostratus group. Larger on average than P. catalinae (6.80 mm vs. 5.76 mm, respectively = midpoints of published ranges for males).
Where is Phytocoris borregoi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Collections have been from Larrea tridentata and Prosopis velutina or Prosopis glandulosa (= Prosopis juliflora in older records). |
| Range | Sonora and Mojave deserts, CA–NV–AZ |
When is Phytocoris borregoi active?
Phytocoris borregoi: seasonal activity - April to November.