Phytocoris catalinae
This record describes Phytocoris catalinae (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
From Stonedahl: Phytocoris catalinae closely resembles borregoi but differs by the smaller average size [5.76 mm vs. 6.80 mm, respectively = midpoints of published ranges for males]; propleuron without pale median line; ...genital capsule without tubercle above base of left paramere and other characters of the male genitalia. The extremely large eyes, narrow vertex, and weakly convex frons are unusual for the rostratus group.
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
Host unknown; most records above 1200 m elevation.
Geographic Range
southeast AZ to western NM.
Seasonal Activity
July to October
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Named for the Santa Catalina Mts. (north of Tucson, AZ), the type locality.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris catalinae. 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 catalinae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris catalinae
What is Phytocoris catalinae?
Phytocoris catalinae is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris catalinae?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Male | 5.35–6.16 mm. |
| Female | 5.1–5.5 mm (J.T. Botz collection, n =2) |
How do you identify Phytocoris catalinae?
From Stonedahl: Phytocoris catalinae closely resembles borregoi but differs by the smaller average size [5.76 mm vs. 6.80 mm, respectively = midpoints of published ranges for males]; propleuron without pale median line; ...genital capsule without tubercle above base of left paramere and other characters of the male genitalia. The extremely large eyes, narrow vertex, and weakly convex frons are unusual for the rostratus group.
Where is Phytocoris catalinae found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Host unknown; most records above 1200 m elevation. |
| Range | southeast AZ to western NM. |
When is Phytocoris catalinae active?
Phytocoris catalinae: seasonal activity - July to October.