Cryptic Leatherbug
Bathysolen nubilus
This record describes Bathysolen nubilus (species). Recorded family: Coreidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5.5 to 7 mm. This squashbug is characterised by a short and broad pronotum which lacks spines and has pale sides. The scutellum has a pale tip and the 1st antennal segment is rather broad, wider than the 4th. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. A ground-dwelling species feeding on members of the pea family, particularly Black Medick and most likely to be encountered in dry habitats and in places where the food plants occur. Adults may be encountered at any time of year, the nymphs are most likely to be found between June and August. Historically very scarce, this species can now be found more widely across southern England and East Anglia. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A ground-dwelling species feeding on members of the pea family, particularly Black Medick and most likely to be encountered in dry habitats and in places where the food plants occur.
Seasonal Activity
Adults may be encountered at any time of year, the nymphs are most likely to be found between June and August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Historically very scarce, this species can now be found more widely across southern England and East Anglia.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Bathysolen nubilus. 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 Cryptic Leatherbug (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptic Leatherbug
What is Cryptic Leatherbug?
Cryptic Leatherbug (Bathysolen nubilus) is a species in the family Coreidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Cryptic Leatherbug?
5.5 to 7 mm. This squashbug is characterised by a short and broad pronotum which lacks spines and has pale sides. The scutellum has a pale tip and the 1st antennal segment is rather broad, wider than the 4th.
Where is Cryptic Leatherbug found?
Habitat: A ground-dwelling species feeding on members of the pea family, particularly Black Medick and most likely to be encountered in dry habitats and in places where the food plants occur.
When is Cryptic Leatherbug active?
Cryptic Leatherbug: seasonal activity - Adults may be encountered at any time of year, the nymphs are most likely to be found between June and August..