Phytocoris breviatus
This record describes Phytocoris breviatus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar in appearance to P. plenus but smaller, and with shorter first antennomere relative to the head size (less than 1.1x the head width across the eyes for the male and less than 1.2x for the female). Structure of the male genitalia will also differentiate this from other species in the P. plenus group. It also bears a striking resemblance to darker specimens of P. carnosulus (and is similar in size to that species), but can be distinguished by the abdomen tapering to a much narrower genital segment in the male (ratio of genital segment basal width to width across hind coxae is approximately 0.7 in P. breviatus and 0.9 in P. carnosulus [J.T. Botz, personal observation]) and by the much narrower 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
Although one record is from Atriplex canescens (Amaranthaceae), the host association still seems to be not well established.
Geographic Range
southern CA-UT
Seasonal Activity
May-September
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris breviatus. 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 breviatus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris breviatus
What is Phytocoris breviatus?
Phytocoris breviatus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris breviatus?
5.40-6.80 mm
How do you identify Phytocoris breviatus?
Similar in appearance to P. plenus but smaller, and with shorter first antennomere relative to the head size (less than 1.1x the head width across the eyes for the male and less than 1.2x for the female). Structure of the male genitalia will also differentiate this from other species in the P. plenus group. It also bears a striking resemblance to darker specimens of P. carnosulus (and is similar in size to that species), but can be distinguished by the abdomen tapering to a much narrower genital segment in the male (ratio of genital segment basal width to width across hind coxae is approximately 0.7 in P. breviatus and 0.9 in P. carnosulus [J.T. Botz, personal observation]) and by the much narrower left genital tubercle.
Where is Phytocoris breviatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Although one record is from Atriplex canescens (Amaranthaceae), the host association still seems to be not well established. |
| Range | southern CA-UT |
When is Phytocoris breviatus active?
Phytocoris breviatus: seasonal activity - May-September.