Identification
This small plant bug, about 3/8th of an inch (10 mm) long, was identified with the help of the expert volunteers at BugGuide. These bugs are quite variable in color and not easy to identify. One of the identifying characteristics is the wing membrane that extends beyond the abdomen as can be seen in the photos.
This image was taken at Camp Brewster at the beginning of June 2012. The host plant is butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa). This bug has only been photographed once in this area so it may be uncommon or rare.
This bug occurs throughout the world. It is listed as “cosmopolitan” in distribution which suggests that it may not be native to North America. It uses many plants as a food source but prefers plants in the aster family (Asteraceae). It can damage pistachio fruit and sorghum in the US and many other crops including cotton, tobacco, cereals and legumes.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.