Apolygus spinolae
This record describes Apolygus spinolae (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 6 mm. Separated from the similar A. lucorum by the paler ground colour and by the cuneus, which is black at the extreme apex. Apolygus species are green and rather broadly oval in shape. The black tibial spines do not arise from black spots and the 2nd antennal segment is usually shorter than the width of the pronotum at the base. Nymphs of this species cannot be identifed with confidence. Found on a range of plants including creeping thistle, meadowsweet, nettle, bog-myrtle and particularly bramble.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on a range of plants including creeping thistle, meadowsweet, nettle, bog-myrtle and particularly bramble.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to September
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Apolygus spinolae. 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.
Photos of Apolygus spinolae (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Apolygus spinolae
What is Apolygus spinolae?
Apolygus spinolae is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Apolygus spinolae?
5 to 6 mm. Separated from the similar A. lucorum by the paler ground colour and by the cuneus, which is black at the extreme apex. Apolygus species are green and rather broadly oval in shape. The black tibial spines do not arise from black spots and the 2nd antennal segment is usually shorter than the width of the pronotum at the base.
Where is Apolygus spinolae found?
Habitat: Found on a range of plants including creeping thistle, meadowsweet, nettle, bog-myrtle and particularly bramble.
When is Apolygus spinolae active?
Apolygus spinolae: seasonal activity - Adult: June to September.