Capsus ater
This record describes Capsus ater (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5-6 mm. This common bug is characterised by its rather oval body shape, black forewings and 2nd antennal segment, which is swollen towards the apex. The widest part of this segment is more than twice as broad as the narrowest section. The head and pronotum of adults vary in colour from rusty brown to blackish. In grasslands, where it is associated with numerous species of Gramineae . Unlike most capsid bugs, it feeds low down on the stems, rather than on flower spikes and developing grains. Quite common and widespread throughout the UK.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Miridae (Plant Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Mirinae
- Tribe
- Mirini
- Genus
- Capsus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In grasslands, where it is associated with numerous species of
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June-September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are purple-brown.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite common and widespread throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Capsus ater. 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 Capsus ater (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Capsus ater
What is Capsus ater?
Capsus ater is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Capsus ater?
5-6 mm. This common bug is characterised by its rather oval body shape, black forewings and 2nd antennal segment, which is swollen towards the apex. The widest part of this segment is more than twice as broad as the narrowest section. The head and pronotum of adults vary in colour from rusty brown to blackish.
Where is Capsus ater found?
Habitat: In grasslands, where it is associated with numerous species of
When is Capsus ater active?
Capsus ater: seasonal activity - Adult: June-September..
What is the life cycle of a Capsus ater?
The larvae are purple-brown.