HemipteraThyreocoridae – Ebony Bugs

Corimelaena virilis

This record describes Corimelaena virilis (species). Recorded family: Thyreocoridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.

Identification and Appearance

Corimelaena virilis - Corimelaena virilis
Contributed by Jason Botz

Differentiated from very similar species by the sloping anterior rim of the pygophore (McAtee and Malloch's hypopygium), forming a carina, with raised setulose knobs on either side of this carina.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
Suborder
Heteroptera
Superfamily
Pentatomoidea
Family
Thyreocoridae (Ebony Bugs)
Genus
Corimelaena

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

Habitat and Range

Geographic Range

WA-CA-AZ-ID

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

Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Corimelaena virilis. 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 Corimelaena virilis (2)

Corimelaena virilis - photo 1
Contributed by Jason Botz
Corimelaena virilis - photo 2
Contributed by Jason Botz

Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz

Frequently Asked Questions About Corimelaena virilis

What is Corimelaena virilis?

Corimelaena virilis is a species in the family Thyreocoridae, within the order Hemiptera.

How big is Corimelaena virilis?

3.5-4 mm

How do you identify Corimelaena virilis?

Differentiated from very similar species by the sloping anterior rim of the pygophore (McAtee and Malloch's hypopygium), forming a carina, with raised setulose knobs on either side of this carina.

Where is Corimelaena virilis found?

Range: WA-CA-AZ-ID

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

Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.