Belonochilus
Uhler, 1871
sycamore seed bug
Species Guides
1- Belonochilus numenius(Sycamore Seed Bug)
Belonochilus is a of seed bugs in the Lygaeidae, containing the single B. numenius, commonly known as the sycamore . Native to North America, it has become in Europe since its first detection in 2008. The species completes its entire on the seed balls of plane trees (Platanus spp.) and has been recorded from 17 European countries.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Belonochilus: //bɛ.loʊ.noʊˈkaɪ.ləs//
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Images
Habitat
Urban, peri-urban, and natural of plane trees; specifically associated with seed balls of Platanus . In North Macedonia, has been found at altitudes up to 964 m a.s.l.
Distribution
Native to North America (USA, Mexico, Canada including Ontario and British Columbia). in Europe: first recorded in 2008 in Spain and France, now present in 17 European countries. First recorded in North Macedonia in July 2019, subsequently found widespread throughout the country in 29 cities and towns.
Diet
Seed balls of Platanus occidentalis, Platanus × acerifolia, and Platanus orientalis; also reported on Platanus racemosa and Platanus wrightii in North America.
Host Associations
- Platanus occidentalis - primary seed balls
- Platanus × acerifolia - primary seed balls
- Platanus orientalis - primary seed balls; natural in North Macedonia
- Platanus racemosa - North American records
- Platanus wrightii - North American records
Life Cycle
Completes entire on seed balls of Platanus spp. are laid on fruit; some individuals overwinter beneath bark of trees.
Behavior
Forms high densities (up to 13 individuals per single seed ball has been observed). During , amasses in houses, balconies, and restaurants. Disperses by , wind, and passive transport via plant trade.
Ecological Role
in Europe. Not considered a threat to the health of Platanus trees, but declared an urban pest and public nuisance in Spain due to high numbers aggregating in human-occupied spaces.
Human Relevance
Declared an urban pest and public nuisance in Spain. Can amass in large numbers in houses, balconies, and restaurants during .
More Details
Invasion history
The was first recorded in Europe in 2008, with simultaneous finds in Spain and France. Its rapid spread across 17 European countries has been facilitated by extensive planting of plane trees as urban ornamentals and increased plant trade.
Population density
In North Macedonia, the was present at 33 of 44 inspected sites, with up to 13 individuals observed on a single seed ball.