The Seasonal Behavior and Ecology of the Boxelder Bug Leptocoris Trivittatus in Minnesota

Abstract

In the summer of 1950, a study was made of the seasonal history and ecology of the boxelder bug (Leptocoris trivittatus Say) better to understand its periodic abundance and limitation to pistillate boxelder trees (Acer negundo L.). has been a good deal of discussion of these phenomena in short notices, but no investigations have been made (Long 1928). In 1937 Smith and Shepherd published a survey of the literature, and gave a description of the life stages, life history, and control measures. At this time, they stated, There are no published reports of a detailed study of the boxelder bug in the literature. My study consisted largely of frequent field observations during the summer of 1950 in an area that had a heavy infestation of boxelder bugs the year before. This study area was located north of St. Paul, Minnesota, near the northern limit of outbreak occurrences. This program was started before the bugs left their hibernaria and continued until after hibernation started in the fall. These general observations were supplemented by special field measurements and laboratory tests. The author wishes to express his appreciation to Dr. A. C. Hodson for his assistance in selecting this problem and for his many helpful suggestions during the research and preparation of the manuscript. I also wish to thank Mrs. Olivia Ingersoll for her advice in preparing the illustrative material.