NATIVE RANGE: North America

FIRST FINDING IN SLOVENIA: 2003

POSSIBLE TO FIND: May-October

FLIGHT SEASON OF ADULTS: May-October (adults overwinter)

DESCRIPTION: An elongated, reddish-brown bug, 15–20 mm long. The edge of abdomen is flat with white and brown bands. The antennae consist of four elongated segments. The hind part of tibiae are broadly flattened and leaf-like, in both adults and larvae (nymphs). Nymphs are small and reddish, with long legs. The bug is polyphagous on conifers, where both adults and nymphs feed from flowers and seeds, which may compromise rejuvenation of coniferous trees because of the damage.

HABITAT: A variety of natural habitats, farmland and urban environments, as well as tree plantations. Individuals may be found on thin branches and cones of coniferous trees. Hibernation takes place in cracks in bark, in a variety of natural cavities and frequently also in buildings.

STATUS: Widespread throughout Europe including in Slovenia.

SIMILAR SPECIES: Similar include the box bug (Gonocerus acuteangulatus), Ceraleptus gracilicornis and other European bug species although none of these have the broadened leaf-like tibia on their hind legs.ariety of natural habitats, farmland and urban areas as well as tree-plantations.

SOURCE: Field Guide to Invasive Alien Species in European Forests