Mesovelia polhemusi
This record describes Mesovelia polhemusi (species). Recorded family: Mesoveliidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

Wikipedia reference for Mesovelia polhemusi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesovelia_polhemusi.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Family
- Mesoveliidae (Water Treaders)
- Genus
- Mesovelia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
tidal mangrove lagoons
Geographic Range
s. FL, Belize
Seasonal Activity
year-round
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mesovelia polhemusi Spangler, 1990
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Mesovelia polhemusi. 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 Mesovelia polhemusi (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Matthew Pintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesovelia polhemusi
How big is Mesovelia polhemusi?
2.2-2.75 mm
Where is Mesovelia polhemusi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | tidal mangrove lagoons |
| Range | s. FL, Belize |
When is Mesovelia polhemusi active?
Mesovelia polhemusi: seasonal activity - year-round.
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