Iralunelus politus
This record describes Iralunelus politus (species). Recorded family: Aradidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of four [aneurine] species in our area with a conspicuous anteromedial callosity on the scutellum (others are leptocerus , minutus , and pygmaeus ). Of these four, two have the second antennal segment longer than the scape and are greater than 3 mm in length ( leptocerus and politus ). A. politus has the second and third antennal segments subequal and the fourth equal to those two combined as well as the scape not attaining apex of tylus, whereas A. leptocerus has each subsequent segment longer than the preceding and the scape attaining apex of the tylus.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e.US (NY, GA‒FL‒MS) ; records outside of the US, e.g. in , are in error
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Iralunelus politus (Say)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Iralunelus politus. 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 Iralunelus politus
What is Iralunelus politus?
Iralunelus politus is a species in the family Aradidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Iralunelus politus?
3.3‒5 mm
How do you identify Iralunelus politus?
One of four [aneurine] species in our area with a conspicuous anteromedial callosity on the scutellum (others are leptocerus , minutus , and pygmaeus ). Of these four, two have the second antennal segment longer than the scape and are greater than 3 mm in length ( leptocerus and politus ). A. politus has the second and third antennal segments subequal and the fourth equal to those two combined as well as the scape not attaining apex of tylus, whereas A. leptocerus has each subsequent segment longer than the preceding and the scape attaining apex of the tylus.
Where is Iralunelus politus found?
Range: e.US (NY, GA‒FL‒MS) ; records outside of the US, e.g. in , are in error