Ectobius sylvestris (Poda, 1761)

Figures 7, 21, 45, 58, 66

Ectobia sylvestris Poda: 1. Ramme 1921: 151.

Ectobia laponica [sic] (Linn.): 2. Drenski 1939: 7 (partim).

Ectobius sylvester Poda: 3. Ramme 1951: 38, 78.

Ectobius sylvestris Poda: 4. Bey-Bienko 1950: 200 -203 • 5. Buresch & Peschev 1957: 320 • 6. Princis 1971: 1073 • 7. Harz & Kaltenbach 1976: 229 • 7. Chobanov 2012: 166.

Notes to the literature data. Buresch & Peschev (1957) recorded Ectobius sylvestris for the first time for Bulgaria based on specimens identified by Drenski (1939) as Ectobia laponica [sic]. In agreement with the latter and based on studied material present in NMNH part of the remaining records of E. laponica [sic] by Drenski (1939) (Eastern Rhodope and Rila Mts.) are herewith referred to E. sylvestris .

Distribution in Bulgaria (Fig. 75): The species occurs in the subalpine and alpine belts of Stara Planina, Rila, Pirin and Rhodope Mts. An isolated locality is reported from the Black Sea coast (Buresch & Peschev 1957). Usually inhabits deciduous forests with high-grass and low-shrub meso- and xerothermic communities between 400 to1600 m as well as open karstic habitats up to 2000 m, found in leaf litter or on top of low trees and shrubs.

Studied material. 53 specimens (37 adults, 16 nymphs) and 2 oothecae.

General distribution. The species is widespread from Western Europe to eastern Scandinavia and southeastern Europe reaching Asia Minor. The species is introduced to the east coast of North America.