About Aradus depressus (Fabricius, 1794)
Aradus depressus is a true bug species belonging to the family Aradidae. This species is found across the Palearctic region, ranging from Ireland eastward to Siberia, and extending south to the Caucasus Mountains. It is the most common species in the genus Aradus, and occurs widely across its range. In the Alps, it can be found at elevations up to 1,600 metres, or 5,200 feet. Aradus depressus inhabits hardwood trees that have been infested by fungi, including fungi from the genera Trametes and Oxyporus. Both nymphs and adult individuals of this species prefer birch trees of the genus Betula, but they are also found on maple (Acer), oak (Quercus), elm (Ulmus), willow (Salix), poplar (Populus), beech (Fagus), alder (Alnus) and apple (Malus). Literature indicates that the species can exceptionally live and thrive on pine (Pinus) as well. Between mid-April and the end of May, female Aradus depressus readily fly, often traveling great distances away from suitable potential habitats.
