Platycranus bicolor
This record describes Platycranus bicolor (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 4 mm. Although similar to other green mirid bugs (e.g. Orthotylus sp.), this bug is the only one to occur on gorse in late summer. The upper surface is covered in scale-like pale hairs and the clavus is darkened in males. The vertex is relatively wide in relation to the eye width. Found mainly in southern Britain and may be abundant where it occurs. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Areas where Gorse is present.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: August and September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found mainly in southern Britain and may be abundant where it occurs.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Platycranus bicolor. 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 Platycranus bicolor (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycranus bicolor
What is Platycranus bicolor?
Platycranus bicolor is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Platycranus bicolor?
about 4 mm. Although similar to other green mirid bugs (e.g. Orthotylus sp.), this bug is the only one to occur on gorse in late summer. The upper surface is covered in scale-like pale hairs and the clavus is darkened in males. The vertex is relatively wide in relation to the eye width.
Where is Platycranus bicolor found?
Habitat: Areas where Gorse is present.
When is Platycranus bicolor active?
Platycranus bicolor: seasonal activity - Adult: August and September..