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Corizus hyoscyami
Family: Rhopalidae
Key to the Rhopalidae of Central Europe (German)

A very handsome species which should be unmistakable. Although striking, it does bear a superficial resemblance to the red and black ground bugs (Lygaeidae); be sure to rule out Arocatus longiceps, which has recently been recorded in south-east England.

In addition to the distinctive markings, C. hyoscyami is further distinguished by its hairiness and the numerous veins in the apical wing membrane, characteristic of all Rhopalidae.

Locally distributed in sandy habitats around the coasts of southern Britain, this species has recently been found more frequently inland. It is associated with a range of plants, and overwinters as an adult, the new generation appearing in August-September. Nymphs are yellow/red-brown in colour and also rather hairy.

Adult: All year
Length 9 mm
 Corizus hyoscyami
Adult: north Wales (April 2007) ©Tristan Bantock
Corizus hyoscyami Corizus hyoscyami
Adult: north Wales (June 2007) ©Tristan Bantock

 Adult: south Wales (May 2007) ©Tristan Bantock
Corizus hyoscyami adults Corizus hyoscyami nymph
Adults: south Wales (May 2009) ©Barry Stewart

 		Nymph: north Wales (July 2008) ©Tristan Bantock