Lygus convexicollis

Reuter, 1876

Lygus convexicollis is a of plant bug in the Miridae, native to western North America. It is one of 34 recognized species in the Lygus on the continent. The species was described by Reuter in 1876, with two former varieties (coloratus and dolichorhynchus) later synonymized under it. Like other Lygus species, it is a true with and is associated with herbaceous vegetation.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lygus convexicollis: /ˈlɪɡəs ˌkɒnvɛksɪˈkɒlɪs/

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Identification

males can be distinguished from other North American Lygus using the identification key provided in the taxonomic revision. The specific epithet 'convexicollis' refers to a convex or rounded pronotum (the plate of the prothorax), which may aid in distinguishing this species from . Seasonal variations in size and color have been documented.

Distribution

Western North America, including the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, and the U.S. states of California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Similar Taxa

  • Lygus lineolarisThe tarnished plant bug is the most widespread and economically important Lygus in North America; L. convexicollis can be distinguished using male genitalia and the convex pronotum referenced in its name
  • Lygus hesperusThe western tarnished plant bug overlaps in distribution with L. convexicollis in western states; both require careful morphological examination for proper identification
  • Lygus elisusFormerly known as L. nigrosignatus, this is another western Nearctic Lygus that may co-occur with L. convexicollis

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