Tuxedo susansolomonae

Schuh, 2004

Tuxedo susansolomonae is a of plant bug in the Miridae, described by Randall T. Schuh in 2004. The Tuxedo belongs to the Phylinae, a group of small, often cryptically colored mirids associated with diverse plants. The species epithet honors Susan Solomon. Members of this genus are found in western North America.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tuxedo susansolomonae: //tʌkˈsiːdoʊ susɑːnˌsoʊloʊˈmoʊniː//

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Identification

Tuxedo susansolomonae can be distinguished from by male genitalic structures, particularly the shape of the left paramere and the vesica of the . The coloration is generally brownish with variable pale markings. As with other Phylinae, the small size (typically 3-4 mm) and compact body form require careful examination for definitive identification.

Habitat

Associated with woody vegetation in western North American coniferous and mixed forests. Specific plant associations have not been documented in published literature.

Distribution

Western North America: documented from California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona in the United States. The Tuxedo has a broader distribution in western North America, with extending into Mexico.

Similar Taxa

Other Tuxedo speciesTuxedo susansolomonae is distinguished from other in the by male genitalic , particularly paramere and aedeagal structures. Schuh's 2004 revision of Tuxedo provides diagnostic characters for all described species.
Other Phylinae generaThe Tuxedo can be recognized by the combination of small size, dull coloration, and specific male genitalic features including the structure of the parameres and vesica. Distinguishing Tuxedo from related genera such as Plagiognathus or Phylus requires examination of genitalic characters.

More Details

Taxonomic history

The Tuxedo was revised by Schuh in 2004 (American Museum Novitates 3435), who described several new including T. susansolomonae. The species name honors Susan Solomon. The genus is placed in the nominate tribe of Phylinae, though tribal assignments in this remain under study.

Collection records

Specimens of Tuxedo susansolomonae have been examined from California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona. The appears to be relatively uncommon in collections compared to some .