Eurygaster alternata
This record describes Eurygaster alternata (species). Recorded family: Scutelleridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Pentatomoidea
- Family
- Scutelleridae (Shield-backed Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Eurygastrinae
- Genus
- Eurygaster
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
prefers more moist areas than other nearctic congeners
Geographic Range
across so. Canada & n. US south to VA & NM
Diet and Behavior
Diet: hosts: Carex (Cyperaceae), Juncus (Juncaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Eurygaster alternata (Say 1828)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Eurygaster alternata. 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 Eurygaster alternata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Eurygaster alternata
How big is Eurygaster alternata?
7.5-9.5 mm
Where is Eurygaster alternata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | prefers more moist areas than other nearctic congeners |
| Range | across so. Canada & n. US south to VA & NM |
What does Eurygaster alternata eat?
The diet of the Eurygaster alternata includes hosts: Carex (Cyperaceae), Juncus (Juncaceae).