Phytocoris praealtus
This record describes Phytocoris praealtus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Distinguished from other species of the P. fraterculus group by the large size, dark brown general coloration, long first antennal segment, greatly inflated scutellum, and structure of the male genitalia.
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
Geographic Range
AZ (known from Chiricahua Mts.)
Seasonal Activity
Specimens have been collected from early July to early August.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: "From the Latin, praealtus (very high), referring to the high elevations (2440-2990 m) from which the species is known."
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris praealtus. 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 praealtus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris praealtus
What is Phytocoris praealtus?
Phytocoris praealtus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris praealtus?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Male | 8.08-9.00 mm |
| Female | 8.75 mm |
How do you identify Phytocoris praealtus?
Distinguished from other species of the P. fraterculus group by the large size, dark brown general coloration, long first antennal segment, greatly inflated scutellum, and structure of the male genitalia.
Where is Phytocoris praealtus found?
Range: AZ (known from Chiricahua Mts.)
When is Phytocoris praealtus active?
Phytocoris praealtus: seasonal activity - Specimens have been collected from early July to early August..