Phytocoris ulmi
This record describes Phytocoris ulmi (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8 mm. Phytocoris species have a distinctive appearance due to the long hind femora and long 1st antennal segment. The ground colour of P. ulmi is similar to P. varipes , but the upper surface is more uniform, lacking longitudinal markings. The 1st antennal segment is thinner and the hairs on ant1 are longer than its width . Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species (a photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are too small or hidden). Found in hedgerows and woods, particularly on Hawthorn. It feeds on the flowers and fruits of a range of plants, as well as small insects. Widespread and fairly common throughout the UK.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in hedgerows and woods, particularly on Hawthorn.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June-October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It feeds on the flowers and fruits of a range of plants, as well as small insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Phytocoris ulmi. 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 ulmi (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytocoris ulmi
What is Phytocoris ulmi?
Phytocoris ulmi is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Phytocoris ulmi?
6 to 8 mm.
Where is Phytocoris ulmi found?
Habitat: Found in hedgerows and woods, particularly on Hawthorn.
When is Phytocoris ulmi active?
Phytocoris ulmi: seasonal activity - Adult: June-October..
What is the life cycle of a Phytocoris ulmi?
It feeds on the flowers and fruits of a range of plants, as well as small insects.