Loricula elegantula
This record describes Loricula elegantula (species). Recorded family: Microphysidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 1.5 to 2.3 mm. A genus of small and inconspicuous bugs, in which the females are very broad-bodied and brachypterous, and the 2nd antennal segment is longer than the 4th. In L. elegantula females the forebody is entirely orange-red and the forewings are tiny and mostly pale. The macropterous males are dark brown with a red cuneus and pale base and apex to the corium. Associated with lichens on tree trunks and stones. 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
- Microphysidae (Minute Bladder Bugs)
- Genus
- Loricula
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with lichens on tree trunks and stones.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: July to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on small invertebrates.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Loricula elegantula. 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 Loricula elegantula (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Loricula elegantula
What is Loricula elegantula?
Loricula elegantula is a species in the family Microphysidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Loricula elegantula?
1.5 to 2.3 mm. A genus of small and inconspicuous bugs, in which the females are very broad-bodied and brachypterous, and the 2nd antennal segment is longer than the 4th. In L. elegantula females the forebody is entirely orange-red and the forewings are tiny and mostly pale. The macropterous males are dark brown with a red cuneus and pale base and apex to the corium.
Where is Loricula elegantula found?
Habitat: Associated with lichens on tree trunks and stones.
When is Loricula elegantula active?
Loricula elegantula: seasonal activity - Adult: July to September..
What is the life cycle of a Loricula elegantula?
Feeds on small invertebrates.