Populations of Pyrrhocorys apterus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Forest-Park Zones of Zhytomyr

The article presents the results of a study on populations of the firebug Pyrrhocoris apterus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the forest-park zones of Zhytomyr. The species is a typical polymorphic colonial inhabitant of mature and intermediate-aged forests. Research focused on abundance, seasonal and reproductive activity, locomotor behavior, and morphological variability. Adults measure 7–12 mm, are predominantly red with black markings, and usually lack hind wings. The bugs are active from early April to late October, form large aggregations near tree bases, and feed on plant sap, seeds, and small insects. Females lay approximately 30 eggs in plant tissues; nymphs emerge after about 1.5 weeks. The study confirms the species’ rapid reproduction and colonial lifestyle in urban forest-park environments.