Oncotylus viridiflavus
This record describes Oncotylus viridiflavus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 6 mm. The black patterning on the head and pronotum combined with the blueish green colour are unique amongst the UK Miridae . This species can be identified with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with. Occasional in southern and central England and some parts of Wales. Oncotylus viridiflavus feeds on Knapweed.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On flowering heads of knapweed.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: July to September
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on knapweed.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Occasional in southern and central England and some parts of Wales.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Oncotylus viridiflavus. 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 Oncotylus viridiflavus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oncotylus viridiflavus
What is Oncotylus viridiflavus?
Oncotylus viridiflavus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Oncotylus viridiflavus?
5 to 6 mm. The black patterning on the head and pronotum combined with the blueish green colour are unique amongst the UK
Where is Oncotylus viridiflavus found?
Habitat: On flowering heads of knapweed.
When is Oncotylus viridiflavus active?
Oncotylus viridiflavus: seasonal activity - Adult: July to September.
What is the life cycle of a Oncotylus viridiflavus?
Feeds on knapweed.