Belostoma ellipticum
This record describes Belostoma ellipticum (species). Recorded family: Belostomatidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Reported from TX and AZ, but no verifiable records have been found. All specimens from TX have been B. subspinosum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Nepoidea
- Family
- Belostomatidae (Giant Water Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Belostomatinae
- Genus
- Belostoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Specimens need review to determine range following revision of the species group
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Belostoma ellipticum Latreille 1833
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Belostoma ellipticum. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Belostoma ellipticum
What is Belostoma ellipticum?
Belostoma ellipticum is a species in the family Belostomatidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Belostoma ellipticum?
Length: males 31.5-41.5 mm, females 31.5-41.0 mm Width: males 14.0-19.5 mm, females 14.5-18.2 mm
How do you identify Belostoma ellipticum?
Reported from TX and AZ, but no verifiable records have been found. All specimens from TX have been B. subspinosum
Where is Belostoma ellipticum found?
Range: Specimens need review to determine range following revision of the species group