Grass Mirid Bug
Stenodema holsata
This record describes Stenodema holsata (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
6 to 7 mm. Stenodema species are elongate grass bugs with a longitudinal furrow between the eyes. The genus is best distinguished by the coarsely and densely pitted pronotum. Very similar to S. laevigata, but has a much shorter, broader and more rounded appearance. The hairs on the 1st antennal segment are shorter than in other Stenodema species and is no notch on the hind femur. High quality photographs required to support records All year. Larvae can be found May-July, the new generation of adults appearing from July onwards. Overwinters as an adult and mated in the spring, when both sexes turn green, although males are often darker than females. Found throughout much of the UK but absent from the south east. It is the commonest Stenodema in upland areas, particularly those dominated by purple moor grass. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Miridae/stenodema_holsata.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassy areas.
Seasonal Activity
All year. Larvae can be found May-July, the new generation of adults appearing from July onwards.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Overwinters as an adult and mated in the spring, when both sexes turn green, although males are often darker than females.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found throughout much of the UK but absent from the south east. It is the commonest Stenodema in upland areas, particularly those dominated by purple moor grass.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Stenodema holsata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grass Mirid Bug
What is Grass Mirid Bug?
Grass Mirid Bug (Stenodema holsata) is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Grass Mirid Bug found?
Habitat: Grassy areas.
When is Grass Mirid Bug active?
Grass Mirid Bug: seasonal activity - All year. Larvae can be found May-July, the new generation of adults appearing from July onwards..
What is the life cycle of a Grass Mirid Bug?
Overwinters as an adult and mated in the spring, when both sexes turn green, although males are often darker than females.