Notonecta viridis
This record describes Notonecta viridis (species). Recorded family: Notonectidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 13 to 15 mm. Distinguished by the front of the pronotum, which has pointed angles that extend partly around the eye. There are four UK Notonecta species and whilst they look broadly similar they can all be separated in the field from the different elytral markings. See ID Aids below. N. glauca is most likely to be confused with N. viridis . Both have pale wing coverings (these are darker in the other two species). The front corners of the N. viridis pronotum are pointed and they extend partly under the eye. The front pronotum corners are more or less square in N. glauca . A good photo of the dorsal surface is needed and ideally a side view showing the front corner of the pronotum. Alternatively the specimen needs to have been examined and the ID method described. Often in brackish water but extending its range into silty bottomed freshwater pools. This species has been recorded in most months of the year. Widespread in England and Wales with few records from the far north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Notonectidae
- Genus
- Notonecta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often in brackish water but extending its range into silty bottomed freshwater pools.
Seasonal Activity
This species has been recorded in most months of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales with few records from the far north.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Notonecta viridis. 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 Notonecta viridis (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Notonecta viridis
What is Notonecta viridis?
Notonecta viridis is a species in the family Notonectidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Notonecta viridis?
13 to 15 mm. Distinguished by the front of the pronotum, which has pointed angles that extend partly around the eye.
Where is Notonecta viridis found?
Habitat: Often in brackish water but extending its range into silty bottomed freshwater pools.
When is Notonecta viridis active?
Notonecta viridis: seasonal activity - This species has been recorded in most months of the year..