Myrmus miriformis
This record describes Myrmus miriformis (species). Recorded family: Rhopalidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6-8 mm (male) 8.5-10 mm (female). In contrast to other Rhopalid bugs, Myrmus miriformis is rather hairless as and adult and is elongate in shape, bearing a superficial resemblance to some of the Mirid grass bugs. Myrmus miriformis males have two colour morphs: a green form (marked with red) and a brown form, while females are always green. The sexes also differ markedly in size; females are larger and more oval. This species usually has very short, rudimentary wings. This species can be identified with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with. Found in dry and damp grassland habitats, feeding on the leaves and unripe seeds of various grasses. Commonly distributed throughout England and Wales at least.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Rhopalidae
- Genus
- Myrmus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in dry and damp grassland habitats, feeding on the leaves and unripe seeds of various grasses.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June-October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Commonly distributed throughout England and Wales at least.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Myrmus miriformis. 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 Myrmus miriformis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrmus miriformis
What is Myrmus miriformis?
Myrmus miriformis is a species in the family Rhopalidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Myrmus miriformis?
6-8 mm (male) 8.5-10 mm (female). In contrast to other
Where is Myrmus miriformis found?
Habitat: Found in dry and damp grassland habitats, feeding on the leaves and unripe seeds of various grasses.
When is Myrmus miriformis active?
Myrmus miriformis: seasonal activity - Adult: June-October..