Trichopsocus clarus

(Banks, 1908)

Trichopsocus clarus is a small (barklouse) in the Trichopsocidae. It is distinguished by its yellow to orange coloration. The species has a remarkably broad distribution, occurring across Europe from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, as well as on Atlantic islands and in Australia and New Zealand. It inhabits foliage of various trees.

Trichopsocus clarus by (c) Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas. Used under a CC-BY license.Trichopsocus clarus by S.E. Thorpe. Used under a Public domain license.Trichopsocus clarus wings by S.E. Thorpe. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Trichopsocus clarus: //trɪˌkɒpˈsoʊkəs ˈklæɹəs//

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Identification

Distinguished from other by its yellow to orange coloration; specific diagnostic characters require examination of wing venation and genitalia. The name "clarus" (meaning bright or clear) likely refers to its conspicuous coloration.

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Habitat

Found on foliage of a range of trees.

Distribution

Europe (United Kingdom, Ireland, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands), Azores, Canary Islands, Madeira, Australia, and New Zealand.

More Details

Taxonomic history

Originally described as Caecilius clarus by Banks in 1908, later transferred to the Trichopsocus.

Distribution pattern

The combination of European, Atlantic island, and Australasian distribution suggests either natural long-distance capabilities or human-mediated introduction to Australia and New Zealand.

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Sources and further reading