Drymus sylvaticus
This record describes Drymus sylvaticus (species). Recorded family: Lygaeidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

Length 4 to 5 mm. This genus has a distinctively-shaped pronotum and the front femur has one large tooth and several small ones. Drymus sylvaticus has reddish-brown forewing and entirely black scutellum and pronotum. The legs lack long hairs. There are two rectangular dark marks forming a V-shape on the forewings, by the tip of the clavus. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species. Amongst moss, grass and leaf-litter on dryish soils. Common (ref.: British Heteroptera checklist 2021 on British Bugs website ) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Lygaeidae/Drymus_sylvaticus.html
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Amongst moss, grass and leaf-litter on dryish soils.
Seasonal Activity
Adults can be seen all year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common (ref.: British Heteroptera checklist 2021 on
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Drymus sylvaticus. 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 Drymus sylvaticus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Drymus sylvaticus
What is Drymus sylvaticus?
Drymus sylvaticus is a species in the family Lygaeidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Drymus sylvaticus?
4 to 5 mm. This genus has a distinctively-shaped pronotum and the front femur has one large tooth and several small ones.
Where is Drymus sylvaticus found?
Habitat: Amongst moss, grass and leaf-litter on dryish soils.
When is Drymus sylvaticus active?
Drymus sylvaticus: seasonal activity - Adults can be seen all year round..
FROM LOOKING IT UP TO GETTING TO KNOW IT
Make sense of the bugs at home.50 household bug profiles for you. Photos, coloring, and activities for curious kids.








