Megalonotus emarginatus
This record describes Megalonotus emarginatus (species). Recorded family: Lygaeidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A medium-sized ground-bug (4.5 to 5.5 mm) with a dark, pubescent and coarsely punctate pronotum. Size, colouration, shape and wing developement are variable, but it has femora that are partly darkened, antennae that are partly pale, and prominent hind corners to the pronotum caused by the deeply concave basal margin to the pronotum. Other Megalonotus, especially M chiragra and M sabulicola. Detailed examination and photos of a specimen is recommended, showing femora, antennae and pronotum; a field photograph is unikely to be adequate because of the similarity to other speces in the genus. Local (ref: British Heteroptera checklist 2021 , on British Bugs website) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Lygaeidae/megalonotus_emarginatus.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry open habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Local (ref:
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Megalonotus emarginatus. 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 Megalonotus emarginatus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Megalonotus emarginatus
What is Megalonotus emarginatus?
Megalonotus emarginatus is a species in the family Lygaeidae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Megalonotus emarginatus found?
Habitat: Dry open habitats.
When is Megalonotus emarginatus active?
Megalonotus emarginatus: seasonal activity - Adult: All year..