Metatropis rufescens
This record describes Metatropis rufescens (species). Recorded family: Berytidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 9 to 11 mm. This is a large orange-brown stiltbug. This species can be identified with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with. It is a woodland species associated with Enchanter's-nightshade. Feeds on the leaves of Enchanter's-nightshade. Adults overwinter, mating in the early summer. The new generation is complete by August. Found throughout much of southern Britain including Wales, although absent from Ireland.
Wikipedia reference for Metatropis rufescens: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metatropis_rufescens.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is a woodland species associated with Enchanter's-nightshade.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: All year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on the leaves of Enchanter's-nightshade. Adults overwinter, mating in the early summer. The new generation is complete by August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found throughout much of southern Britain including Wales, although absent from Ireland.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Metatropis rufescens. 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 Metatropis rufescens (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Metatropis rufescens
What is Metatropis rufescens?
Metatropis rufescens is a species in the family Berytidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Metatropis rufescens?
9 to 11 mm. This is a large orange-brown stiltbug.
Where is Metatropis rufescens found?
Habitat: It is a woodland species associated with Enchanter's-nightshade.
When is Metatropis rufescens active?
Metatropis rufescens: seasonal activity - Adult: All year..
What is the life cycle of a Metatropis rufescens?
Feeds on the leaves of Enchanter's-nightshade. Adults overwinter, mating in the early summer. The new generation is complete by August.