HemipteraAradidae – Flat Bugs

Aradus similis

This record describes Aradus similis (species). Recorded family: Aradidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.

Identification and Appearance

Aradus similis - Aradus similis
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov

3rd antennal segment pale yellow except fuscous base In the relatively thick median process of the head and the relatively short antennae resembles A. parvicornis ; however, in A. similis the median process of the head does not reach the middle of antennomere 2 and the antenna is thicker and longer than in A. parvicornis [ A. parvicornis is western: BC‒CA to ID‒NM ]

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
Suborder
Heteroptera
Family
Aradidae (Flat Bugs)
Subfamily
Aradinae
Genus
Aradus

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

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Associated with Polyporus fungus on Betula, Ulmus, Acer, Quercus, Fraxinus

Geographic Range

e NA (NS‒FL to WI‒IA‒TX) ( 3 )

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Aradus similis Say 1832

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

Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aradus similis. 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 Aradus similis (5)

Aradus similis - photo 1
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Aradus similis - photo 2
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Aradus similis - photo 3
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Aradus similis - photo 4
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Aradus similis - photo 5
Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov

Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov

Frequently Asked Questions About Aradus similis

What is Aradus similis?

Aradus similis is a species in the family Aradidae, within the order Hemiptera.

How big is Aradus similis?

♀ 6.8‒7.3 mm, ♂ 5.7 mm

How do you identify Aradus similis?

3rd antennal segment pale yellow except fuscous base In the relatively thick median process of the head and the relatively short antennae resembles A. parvicornis ; however, in A. similis the median process of the head does not reach the middle of antennomere 2 and the antenna is thicker and longer than in A. parvicornis [ A. parvicornis is western: BC‒CA to ID‒NM ]

Where is Aradus similis found?
FeatureDetails
HabitatAssociated with Polyporus fungus on Betula, Ulmus, Acer, Quercus, Fraxinus
Rangee NA (NS‒FL to WI‒IA‒TX) ( 3 )

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.