Capsus ater

(Linnaeus, 1758)

black plant bug

Capsus ater is a plant bug in the Miridae, commonly known as the black plant bug. It is widely distributed across North America, Europe, and northern Asia, with evidence suggesting North American origin followed by introduction to other regions. The inhabits dry to moderately moist open and feeds on various grasses without apparent preference for particular species or .

Capsus ater 1 by Mick Talbot. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Capsus ater (14414365031) by Armand Turpel. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Capsus ater (Miridae) - (imago), Nijmegen, the Netherlands by

This image is created by user B. Schoenmakers at Waarneming.nl, a source of nature observations in the Netherlands.
. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Capsus ater: /ˈkæpsəs ˈeɪtər/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

The 'black plant bug' refers to its dark coloration. As a member of Miridae, it possesses the -typical with membranous portion and leathery basal portion. Specific diagnostic features distinguishing it from are not documented in available sources.

Images

Habitat

Found in dry to moderately moist, open to partially shaded . In the Alps, it occurs at elevations exceeding 2000 meters above sea level.

Distribution

Native to North America; introduced and established in Europe, northern Asia (including Siberia), and Africa. Specific records include: Canada (Ontario, Newfoundland), USA (New York, Ohio, West Virginia, Wisconsin), Britain, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Corsica, Russia (Sakhalin Island, Kurile Islands).

Diet

Feeds on various grasses (Poaceae). No particular preference for specific grass or has been documented.

Host Associations

Poaceae - food plant feeder on grasses without -level preference

More Details

Taxonomic note

Authorship sometimes cited as (Linnaeus, 1758). The shows a classic pattern of presumed North American origin with subsequent Palearctic establishment.