Empicoris vagabundus
This record describes Empicoris vagabundus (species). Recorded family: Reduviidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6-7 mm. Empicoris species are known as thread-legged bugs; although similar to the stilt bugs, they are easily distinguished by the curved rostrum. E. vagabundus is the commonest of the three species, and best identified by its larger size and the pale sides of the connexivum. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species. Adult is a predator of small insects such as greenfly. Distributed commonly throughout the UK, although absent from Ireland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Reduviidae (Assassin Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Emesinae
- Tribe
- Ploiariolini
- Genus
- Empicoris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On trees, shrubs and other plants.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: All year
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adult is a predator of small insects such as greenfly.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Distributed commonly throughout the UK, although absent from Ireland.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Empicoris vagabundus. 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 Empicoris vagabundus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Empicoris vagabundus
What is Empicoris vagabundus?
Empicoris vagabundus is a species in the family Reduviidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Empicoris vagabundus?
6-7 mm.
Where is Empicoris vagabundus found?
Habitat: On trees, shrubs and other plants.
When is Empicoris vagabundus active?
Empicoris vagabundus: seasonal activity - Adult: All year.
What is the life cycle of a Empicoris vagabundus?
Adult is a predator of small insects such as greenfly.