Orthocephalus coriaceus
This record describes Orthocephalus coriaceus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4 to 5 mm. The two Orthocephalus species are very dark and rather squat plant bugs in which the hind tibiae are modified for jumping. The antennae are entirely black. This species is distinguished from the similar O. saltator by the entirely dark hind tibiae. In males the corium is inwardly yellowish; macropterous and brachypterous forms of both sexes occur. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Found in a variety of grassland habitats. Widespread but locally distributed throughout the UK. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Miridae (Plant Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Orthotylinae
- Tribe
- Halticini
- Genus
- Orthocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in a variety of grassland habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but locally distributed throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Orthocephalus coriaceus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthocephalus coriaceus
What is Orthocephalus coriaceus?
Orthocephalus coriaceus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Orthocephalus coriaceus?
4 to 5 mm. The two
Where is Orthocephalus coriaceus found?
Habitat: Found in a variety of grassland habitats.
When is Orthocephalus coriaceus active?
Orthocephalus coriaceus: seasonal activity - Adult: June to September..