Lopus decolor
This record describes Lopus decolor (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4 to 5 mm. A fairly small greyish-yellow bug which is elongate oval in shape. The head has two darker marks bordering the eyes and the tarsi are entirely dark. There are other, very similar species and care is needed with identification. Quite similar to Amblytylus nasutus and Megalocoleus molliculus . Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Fairly common and widespread throughout the Britain. No additional images available for this species.
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
- Phylinae
- Tribe
- Cremnorrhinini
- Genus
- Lopus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found in dry grasslands.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on several grass species.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread throughout the Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Lopus decolor. 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 Lopus decolor (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lopus decolor
What is Lopus decolor?
Lopus decolor is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Lopus decolor?
4 to 5 mm. A fairly small greyish-yellow bug which is elongate oval in shape. The head has two darker marks bordering the eyes and the tarsi are entirely dark. There are other, very similar species and care is needed with identification.
Where is Lopus decolor found?
Habitat: Usually found in dry grasslands.
When is Lopus decolor active?
Lopus decolor: seasonal activity - Adult: June to August..
What is the life cycle of a Lopus decolor?
Feeds on several grass species.