Black-kneed Capsid vs Locust Treehopper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black-kneed Capsid Locust Treehopper
Scientific Name Blepharidopterus angulatus Thelia bimaculata
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Miridae Membracidae
Size 5-6 mm 8-11 mm
Habitat Orchards Grasslands
Diet Predators Sap Feeders
Regions Europe Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black-kneed Capsid

A slender, pale green mirid bug with distinctive black knee joints. It is a beneficial predator found in European apple orchards where it feeds on red spider mites. It is one of the most important natural enemies of fruit tree red spider mite.

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Did You Know?

A single individual can consume over 100 spider mites per day, making it so effective that some orchardists manage their spraying programs to conserve this natural predator.

Locust Treehopper

A large, dull-colored treehopper found on black locust trees across eastern North America. It produces copious honeydew that attracts ant attendants.

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Did You Know?

Ant colonies compete fiercely over access to these treehoppers, as they are prolific honeydew producers.