Lygocoris rugicollis
(Fallen, 1807)
Apple Capsid
Lygocoris rugicollis is a widespread plant-feeding in the Miridae, commonly known as the Apple . are small, yellow, and distinguished by a strongly wrinkled prothorax. The has a broad geographic range spanning Europe, North Africa, Central Asia, and North America. It is primarily associated with willows and alders but has been reported as an occasional pest on cultivated fruit crops.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lygocoris rugicollis: /ˌlaɪɡoʊˈkɔːrɪs ˌruːdʒɪˈkɒlɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar mirids by the strongly wrinkled, prothorax with a hairless upper surface. Resembles Orthotylus marginalis but differs in prothoracic sculpturing. The yellow coloration and small size (5.5–7.0 mm) are additional field characters.
Images
Appearance
measure 5.5–7.0 mm in length. The body is yellow in color. The prothorax is strongly wrinkled () with an apparently hairless upper surface. This wrinkled prothorax is a key diagnostic feature.
Habitat
Found on bushes and small trees, particularly in riparian and woodland edge where willows and alders occur. Associated with vegetation in the Salicaceae and Betulaceae.
Distribution
Native to the Palearctic; recorded throughout Europe (including the UK, Spain, and Scandinavia), North Africa, and east to Central Asia and Siberia. Introduced to North America, with established in Alaska, Canada (including the Maritime provinces), and presumably adjacent United States.
Seasonality
are active from May to October.
Diet
Phytophagous; feeds on a large variety of bushes and small trees. Strongly associated with willows (Salicaceae) and alders (Betulaceae). Has been reported feeding on pome fruits (Malus) and Ribes (currants and gooseberries).
Host Associations
- Salicaceae - primary especially willows
- Betulaceae - primary especially alders
- Rosaceae - secondary pome fruits, particularly apple (Malus)
- Grossulariaceae - secondary currants and gooseberries (Ribes)
Ecological Role
Herbivore; contributes to herbivory pressure on woody shrubs and small trees in riparian and woodland .
Human Relevance
Reported as a minor agricultural pest on apple trees and Ribes crops (currants and gooseberries) in Europe. Damage potential appears limited compared to primary .
Similar Taxa
- Orthotylus marginalisSimilar yellow coloration and overall appearance; distinguished by L. rugicollis having a strongly wrinkled prothorax versus the smoother prothorax of O. marginalis