Loxa viridis
This record describes Loxa viridis (species). Recorded family: Pentatomidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Antennae highly variable in color, from almost entirely pale to dark, mostly possessing some red coloration and at least one fine brown to piceus line on two basal segments; apical three segments commonly darker at apex than at base (emphsis added) Humeri strongly produced into acute spines This species is the most widespread of the genus and the most variable, but the male genitalia and female genital plates are relatively consistent throughout.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Pentatomoidea
- Family
- Pentatomidae (Stink Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Pentatominae
- Tribe
- Chlorocorini
- Genus
- Loxa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
c. FL to W. Indies & c. TX to n. Argentina - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Loxa viridis (Palisot 1811)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Loxa viridis. 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 Loxa viridis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Loxa viridis
What is Loxa viridis?
Loxa viridis is a species in the family Pentatomidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Loxa viridis?
Length: 18.3-25.3 mm
How do you identify Loxa viridis?
Antennae highly variable in color, from almost entirely pale to dark, mostly possessing some red coloration and at least one fine brown to piceus line on two basal segments; apical three segments commonly darker at apex than at base (emphsis added) Humeri strongly produced into acute spines This species is the most widespread of the genus and the most variable, but the male genitalia and female genital plates are relatively consistent throughout.
Where is Loxa viridis found?
Range: c. FL to W. Indies & c. TX to n. Argentina - Map