Plesiodema pinetella
This record describes Plesiodema pinetella (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (length around 3 mm) dark bug which lacks pale hairs on the upper surface. The foreparts are often darker than the corium and the base of the cuneus is pale. The tibial spines are shorter than the width of the tibiae and are not set in black spots. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined in detail. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Locally common across the much of the UK.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with Scots Pine.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Locally common across the much of the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Plesiodema pinetella. 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 Plesiodema pinetella (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Plesiodema pinetella
What is Plesiodema pinetella?
Plesiodema pinetella is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Plesiodema pinetella?
around 3 mm) dark bug which lacks pale hairs on the upper surface. The foreparts are often darker than the corium and the base of the cuneus is pale. The tibial spines are shorter than the width of the tibiae and are not set in black spots.
Where is Plesiodema pinetella found?
Habitat: Associated with Scots Pine.
When is Plesiodema pinetella active?
Plesiodema pinetella: seasonal activity - Adult: June to August..