HemipteraAnthocoridae – Minute Pirate Bugs3 data sources

Anthocoris nemoralis

This record describes Anthocoris nemoralis (species). Recorded family: Anthocoridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.

Identification and Appearance

Anthocoris nemoralis - Anthocoris nemoralis

Length 3-3.4mm. Flower bugs are a very difficult group and this species is amongst the hardest to identify. Images contained in a red box denote that they are only likely to be this species and are typical of the species but have not been examined in detail to be certain of identity. The forewings are shiny only on the cuneus and embolium (along the outer edge), and at the apex of the corium. The 1st antennal segment is dark, and the 2nd partly pale at the base; LENGTH OF SECOND ANTENNAL SEGMENT LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO WIDTH OF HEAD ACROSS EYES . The forewings are relatively darkly marked compared with A. nemorum and the markings on the membrane also differ. It is most difficult to separate from A. confusus but the latter generally appears to have darker femora and the embolium is only partly shiny - detailed photographs taken with the correct lighting are needed to confirm this. The forewings are shiny only on the cuneus and embolium (along the outer edge), and at the apex of the corium - detailed photographs taken with the correct lighting are needed to confirm this. The 1st antennal segment is dark, and the 2nd partly pale at the base; LENGTH OF SECOND ANTENNAL SEGMENT LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO WIDTH OF HEAD ACROSS EYES . The forewings are relatively darkly marked compared with A. nemorum and the markings on the membrane also differ. The species is found on many different deciduous trees. Frequent and very widespread, but much less common than A. nemorum on low vegetation.

Wikipedia reference for Anthocoris nemoralis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthocoris_nemoralis.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
Suborder
Heteroptera
Superfamily
Cimicoidea
Family
Anthocoridae (Minute Pirate Bugs)
Tribe
Anthocorini
Genus
Anthocoris

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

The species is found on many different deciduous trees.

Seasonal Activity

Adult: All year

Additional species information

Recorded status

Frequent and very widespread, but much less common than A. nemorum on low vegetation.

About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group

Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Anthocoris nemoralis. Species-specific details appear above.

Group overview

Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.

Ecological role of the group

Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.

Economic and practical significance of the group

The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.

Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.

Explore Hemiptera families and species →

Photos of Anthocoris nemoralis (3)

Anthocoris nemoralis - photo 1
Anthocoris nemoralis - photo 2
Anthocoris nemoralis - photo 3

Frequently Asked Questions About Anthocoris nemoralis

What is Anthocoris nemoralis?

Anthocoris nemoralis is a species in the family Anthocoridae, within the order Hemiptera.

How big is Anthocoris nemoralis?

3-3.4mm. Flower bugs are a very difficult group and this species is amongst the hardest to identify. Images contained in a red box denote that they are only likely to be this species and are typical of the species but have not been examined in detail to be certain of identity. The forewings are shiny only on the cuneus and embolium (along the outer edge), and at the apex of the corium. The 1st antennal segment is dark, and the 2nd partly pale at the base;

Where is Anthocoris nemoralis found?

Habitat: The species is found on many different deciduous trees.

When is Anthocoris nemoralis active?

Anthocoris nemoralis: seasonal activity - Adult: All year.