This pair of Neacoryphus bicrucis, whitecrossed seed bugs, was found on (where else?) the dusty miller (Senecio cineraria) on May 14. A pattern could be developing regarding Tustin sitings of these little-studied buggies:
January 22, 2007: A loner found on my wood fence.
May 19, 2008: A mating pair on the senecio.
January 22, 2009: Several adults seen on or around this date on plants other than senecio, even though senecio is grown in the yard year-round.
May 14, 2009: A pair (maybe getting ready to mate) on senecio.
Search the blog for 'Bicrucis' to see the previous posts and photos.
As previously noted here, Ragwort is said to be the prime food and egg-laying site for this species. Senecio cineraria is called silver ragwort by some. The bugs are said to be migratory, and I'm wondering if January is their trip south (not mating) and May is the trip north (mating). It's also possible, given our mild winters, the species is present year-round and I just haven't noticed them at other times of the year. Also still waiting to see eggs and nymphs.
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