Orthotylus ochrotrichus
This record describes Orthotylus ochrotrichus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A ~5mm bright green species which is found on nettles and a variety of decidous trees, particularly elm. The length of the 2nd antennal segment is less than the 3rd and 4th combined. Extremely similar to O. prasinus, also found on elm, but this species is more blue-green in colour and has slightly shorter antennae. Examination of the male genitalia is required to confirm this species. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Miridae/orthotylus_ochrotrichus.html
Classification
Habitat and Range
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Orthotylus ochrotrichus. 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.
