Ceratocapsus lutescens
Reuter, 1876
Ceratocapsus lutescens is a of plant bug in the Miridae, first described by Reuter in 1876. Like other members of the Ceratocapsus, it is a small true with . The species has been recorded from Texas and is known to be attracted to blacklights at night. Information on its and associations remains limited.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ceratocapsus lutescens: //ˌsɛrətəˈkæpsəs luːˈtɛskɛnz//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Ceratocapsus are small mirid plant bugs that can be challenging to distinguish from one another without close examination. The specific epithet "lutescens" (meaning yellowish or becoming yellow) suggests a pale or yellowish coloration that may help differentiate this species from . Accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of male genitalia or other microscopic features.
Distribution
Recorded from Texas, USA. The Ceratocapsus is widely distributed in North America.
Seasonality
have been observed in July in Colorado, suggesting summer activity. As with many mirid plant bugs, activity likely coincides with the growing season of plants.
Behavior
are attracted to blacklights at night, a common among mirid plant bugs.
Similar Taxa
- Orthotylus spp.Another of small mirid plant bugs that are common visitors to blacklights and can be confused with Ceratocapsus without careful examination.
- Reuteroscopus ornatusA distinctive mirid that is also attracted to blacklights, but differs in having patterning and upturned palps that resemble horns between the .
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Ceratocapsus belongs to the large and diverse Miridae (plant bugs), which contains over 10,000 described worldwide. Many mirid species remain poorly known biologically.