Hoplomachus thunbergii
This record describes Hoplomachus thunbergii (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4mm. A distinctively marked plant bug. The upper surface is covered in dark hairs. Feeds on Mouse-ear Hawkweed in dry grassland habitats. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Miridae/Hoplomachus_thunbergi.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Feeds on Mouse-ear Hawkweed in dry grassland habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Summer
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found locally across southern Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Hoplomachus thunbergii. 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 Hoplomachus thunbergii (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hoplomachus thunbergii
What is Hoplomachus thunbergii?
Hoplomachus thunbergii is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Hoplomachus thunbergii?
4mm. A distinctively marked plant bug. The upper surface is covered in dark hairs.
Where is Hoplomachus thunbergii found?
Habitat: Feeds on Mouse-ear Hawkweed in dry grassland habitats.
When is Hoplomachus thunbergii active?
Hoplomachus thunbergii: seasonal activity - Summer.