Apple Brown Bug

Apple Brown Bug - Atractotomus mali

Description

Length 3.5mm The 1st antennal segment is triangular and tapers towards the base, while the 2nd segment is much thickened in both sexes, particularly so in females. The body shape is rather oval and convex. The larvae are red, with the fore-parts darker. 

Similar Species

A. magnicornis, A. parvulus

Identification difficulty
ID checklist (your specimen should have all of these features)

Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify this species. A photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are not obvious and there are one or more similar species.
 

Recording advice

Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify this species. A photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are not obvious and there are one or more similar species.

Habitat

Where Apple and Hawthorn are present. 

When to see it

June to August.

Life History

Feeds on apple and hawthorn, although this species is also partly predatory.

UK Status

Common across much of southern Britain. 

VC55 Status

Seems to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records