Piesma maculatum
This record describes Piesma maculatum (species). Recorded family: Piesmatidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.0 to 3.0 mm. This species is distinguished from Parapiesma quadratum by the shape of the pronotum, which has clearly indented side margins. 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. Disturbed ground and other areas where the host plants occur. All year. Adults overwinter, mating in the spring and producing several generations per year. Feeds on goosefoot and other similar ruderal chenopods and occasionally on spinach and beet. Found widely throughout England and Wales, but more commonly in the south. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Piesma maculatum: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piesma_maculatum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Piesmatidae
- Genus
- Piesma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Disturbed ground and other areas where the host plants occur.
Seasonal Activity
All year. Adults overwinter, mating in the spring and producing several generations per year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on goosefoot and other similar ruderal chenopods and occasionally on spinach and beet.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found widely throughout England and Wales, but more commonly in the south.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Piesma maculatum. 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 Piesma maculatum (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Piesma maculatum
What is Piesma maculatum?
Piesma maculatum is a species in the family Piesmatidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Piesma maculatum?
2.0 to 3.0 mm. This species is distinguished from Parapiesma quadratum by the shape of the pronotum, which has clearly indented side margins.
Where is Piesma maculatum found?
Habitat: Disturbed ground and other areas where the host plants occur.
When is Piesma maculatum active?
Piesma maculatum: seasonal activity - All year. Adults overwinter, mating in the spring and producing several generations per year..
What is the life cycle of a Piesma maculatum?
Feeds on goosefoot and other similar ruderal chenopods and occasionally on spinach and beet.