Macrotylus solitarius
This record describes Macrotylus solitarius (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 mm. A distinctive genus comprising three rather parallel-sided grey-green species, characterised by a dense covering of coarse, dark hairs on the forewings and a striking wing membrane pattern. The tibial spines are fine and inconspicuous. In M. solitarius the 1st antennal segment is pale green and the wing membrane lacks a dark spot, as in M. horvathi. On Hedge Woundwort, particularly where it grows at woodland edges. Found locally across much of England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Hedge Woundwort, particularly where it grows at woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June-August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found locally across much of England and Wales.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Macrotylus solitarius. 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 Macrotylus solitarius (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrotylus solitarius
What is Macrotylus solitarius?
Macrotylus solitarius is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Macrotylus solitarius?
5 mm. A distinctive genus comprising three rather parallel-sided grey-green species, characterised by a dense covering of coarse, dark hairs on the forewings and a striking wing membrane pattern. The tibial spines are fine and inconspicuous. In M. solitarius the 1st antennal segment is pale green and the wing membrane lacks a dark spot, as in M. horvathi.
Where is Macrotylus solitarius found?
Habitat: On Hedge Woundwort, particularly where it grows at woodland edges.
When is Macrotylus solitarius active?
Macrotylus solitarius: seasonal activity - Adult: June-August..