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Arocatus longiceps

Plane tree seed bug

Description

Arocatus longiceps, commonly known as the plane tree seed bug, is a sap-feeding insect from the family Lygaeidae. This species is primarily monophagous, feeding on the leaves, seeds and fruits of plane trees (Platanus hispanica and P. orientalis) but may be found also on other tree species. It has been widely recorded across western Europe since 90th, particularly in urban environments. Adults and larvae inhabit the leaves, fruits and young shoots of host trees, with adults overwintering under the flaky bark of plane trees, often in large numbers. Arocatus longiceps originates from warmer regions of southern and southeastern Europe. However, its distribution has expanded to western and northern Europe, including southern England, likely due to urbanization and changing climatic conditions.

The species can reduce the aesthetic appearance of trees due to the high density of bugs on their surfaces, although it does not significantly impact tree health. The coloration of adults may vary a bit depending on the host plant.

Symptom

Clusters of bugs, including adults and larvae, are visible on leaves, fruits and young shoots of trees. Flaky bark may reveal overwintering adults in crevices, often in large aggregations.

Tree Species: Chestnut, Hornbeam, Maple, Lime, Plane

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Branch

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: Yes

Present in EU: Yes