Lygus pratensis

Length 6-7 mm. This genus is one of the most problematic Mirid groups to identify. The five UK species can overlap considerably in colour, markings and size; some specimens cannot be determined. The most reliable identification features concern the fine detail of the corium, and are visible only at high resolution. Identification is best done from a specimen by an expert. Where the image has not received expert verification it is highlighted with a red box and is only likely to be this species. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify this species. A photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are not obvious and there are one or more similar species. To increase the chances of your record being verified please take several sharp images from different angles as the fine detail required for ID can be hard to see. (You can submit up to 4 images per record.) Previously scarce and confined to southern heaths, this bug has recently undergone a dramatic range expansion. It is now widespread throughout much of southern Britain and is much commoner than its RDB3 status suggests. The genus Lygus is probably the most difficult of the Miridae. The most reliable identification feature is the separation of the hairs on the Corium. See Bernard Nau's article for more information http://www.britishbugs.org.uk/HetNews/Issue%203_Spring%202004_422Kb.pdf