Miridius quadrivirgatus
This record describes Miridius quadrivirgatus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 9 to11 mm. A large and long-legged species with a long 1st antennal segment and diagnostic markings; unbroken orangey-red and cream stripes run the full length of the head, pronotum and scutellum. The red cuneus is variable. It is associated with Wall Barley and other grasses. This species has a southerly distribution and is found locally between Suffolk and Pembrokeshire. Historically mainly coastal, it has recently become more common inland. Numbers tend to fluctuate greatly between years.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In rough pastures or wastelands.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: July-August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is associated with Wall Barley and other grasses.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This species has a southerly distribution and is found locally between Suffolk and Pembrokeshire. Historically mainly coastal, it has recently become more common inland. Numbers tend to fluctuate greatly between years.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Miridius quadrivirgatus. 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 Miridius quadrivirgatus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Miridius quadrivirgatus
What is Miridius quadrivirgatus?
Miridius quadrivirgatus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Miridius quadrivirgatus?
9 to11 mm. A large and long-legged species with a long 1st antennal segment and diagnostic markings; unbroken orangey-red and cream stripes run the full length of the head, pronotum and scutellum. The red cuneus is variable.
Where is Miridius quadrivirgatus found?
Habitat: In rough pastures or wastelands.
When is Miridius quadrivirgatus active?
Miridius quadrivirgatus: seasonal activity - Adult: July-August.
What is the life cycle of a Miridius quadrivirgatus?
It is associated with Wall Barley and other grasses.