HemipteraMiridae – Plant Bugs2 data sources

Leptopterna ferrugata

This record describes Leptopterna ferrugata (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.

Identification and Appearance

Leptopterna ferrugata - Leptopterna ferrugata

Length: 7.0 to 8.5 mm. This large, sexually dimorphic grass bug has a transverse furrow between the eyes and the legs and antennae are covered in long dark hairs. It often has reddish or orange-yellow forewings, hence the Latin name, however care must be taken to distinguish it from the very similar L. dolabrata. In males the forewings are usually pinkish-brown and the length of the 2nd antennal segment is roughly equal to the 3rd and 4th combined (much greater in L. dolabrata). In females the 2nd antennal segment is wider than the base of the front tibia (thinner in L. dolabrata). This species also tends to prefer drier habitats than L. dolabrata. This species can be identified with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
Suborder
Heteroptera
Superfamily
Miroidea
Family
Miridae (Plant Bugs)
Subfamily
Mirinae
Tribe
Stenodemini
Genus
Leptopterna

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

This bug feeds on a variety of grasses.

Seasonal Activity

Adult: June to September

Additional species information

Recorded status

Widespread and common.

About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group

Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Leptopterna ferrugata. 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.

Explore Hemiptera families and species →

Photos of Leptopterna ferrugata (7)

Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 1
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 2
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 3
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 4
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 5
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 6
Leptopterna ferrugata - photo 7

Frequently Asked Questions About Leptopterna ferrugata

What is Leptopterna ferrugata?

Leptopterna ferrugata is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.

Where is Leptopterna ferrugata found?

Habitat: This bug feeds on a variety of grasses.

When is Leptopterna ferrugata active?

Leptopterna ferrugata: seasonal activity - Adult: June to September.