Globe-mallow Plant Bug
Keltonia
Several of these bugs were found on Desert Globe Mallow (Sphaeralcia ambigua) in Phoenix, Maricopa Co., Arizona. 6 April 2016. The actual length is about 2mm. Identification to genus was made by graciously made WonGun Kim.
Miridae -- Plant Bug Family
This minute plant bug finds its living on new growth and developing flower buds of Desert Globe Mallow, a member of the Malvaceae. I was intrigued by the pale bumps on the forewings and pronotum because this produces a pattern that helps the insect camouflage against the foliage that is similarly textured. These insects in turn are food for spiders and assassins, which are, in turn, food for birds and lizards. The web is intricate where many players are very small and would go unnoticed by almost everyone.