Dicyphus escalerae
This record describes Dicyphus escalerae (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
The rather coarse black pubescence arising from black spots on the dorsal surface helps to distinguish it from other UK Dicyphus species. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species. You must state the host-plant. UK sightings have fallen between March and November so far, but adults and nymphs overwinter so it can be seen outside this range. This bug seems to feed exclusively on Antirrhinums, using all parts of the plant, especially the flower spikes. It causes obvious feeding damage of white or yellow flecks when numbers are sufficient. Nymphs have only been seen on Antirrhinum majus but the adults show some dispersal to form new colonies and so may also be encountered elsewhere. This Mirid bug has been spreading out across Europe from its original Western-Mediterranean range, probably with the help of cultivated Snap-dragons moving through the horticultural trade. It was first seen in the UK in 2007 and has already been found at numerous different sites across the country. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Miridae/Dicyphus_escalerae.html
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Snap-dragon (
Seasonal Activity
UK sightings have fallen between March and November so far, but adults and nymphs overwinter so it can be seen outside this range.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This bug seems to feed exclusively on Antirrhinums, using all parts of the plant, especially the flower spikes. It causes obvious feeding damage of white or yellow flecks when numbers are sufficient. Nymphs have only been seen on Antirrhinum majus but the adults show some dispersal to form new colonies and so may also be encountered elsewhere.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This Mirid bug has been spreading out across Europe from its original Western-Mediterranean range, probably with the help of cultivated Snap-dragons moving through the horticultural trade. It was first seen in the UK in 2007 and has already been found at numerous different sites across the country.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Dicyphus escalerae. 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 Dicyphus escalerae (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dicyphus escalerae
What is Dicyphus escalerae?
Dicyphus escalerae is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Dicyphus escalerae found?
Habitat: On Snap-dragon (
When is Dicyphus escalerae active?
Dicyphus escalerae: seasonal activity - UK sightings have fallen between March and November so far, but adults and nymphs overwinter so it can be seen outside this range..
What is the life cycle of a Dicyphus escalerae?
This bug seems to feed exclusively on Antirrhinums, using all parts of the plant, especially the flower spikes. It causes obvious feeding damage of white or yellow flecks when numbers are sufficient. Nymphs have only been seen on Antirrhinum majus but the adults show some dispersal to form new colonies and so may also be encountered elsewhere.