Mecomma ambulans
This record describes Mecomma ambulans (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.5 to 4.5 mm. Mecomma species are sexually dimorphic; males are macropterous and females usually brachypterous. Male M. ambulans are separated from the more local M. dispar by the entirely dark antennae and by the pronotum, which is clearly wider than the head. Females have all dark forewings, the 1st antennal segment is dark and the 2nd segment is not clubbed. The dark head readily distinguishes this sex from Orthonotus rufifrons . Good photographs showing key ID features required. Inhabits rank vegetation, particularly at woodland edges. A fairly common species throughout the UK. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Inhabits rank vegetation, particularly at woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
Summer-Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A fairly common species throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Mecomma ambulans. 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 Mecomma ambulans (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mecomma ambulans
What is Mecomma ambulans?
Mecomma ambulans is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Mecomma ambulans?
2.5 to 4.5 mm.
Where is Mecomma ambulans found?
Habitat: Inhabits rank vegetation, particularly at woodland edges.
When is Mecomma ambulans active?
Mecomma ambulans: seasonal activity - Summer-Autumn..