Polymerus basalis
This record describes Polymerus basalis (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
It varies with more or less extended and obscure or almost obsolete brown markings. Type Locality: Texas ( Belfarge )
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
- Mirinae
- Tribe
- Mirini
- Genus
- Polymerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
almost always on flowers
Geographic Range
e. NA to s. Calif. (QC‒ON to FL‒CA) / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
most abundant in the fall (Snodgrass et al. 1984)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Feeds mostly on Asteraceae (Snodgrass et al. 1984)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Polymerus basalis. 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 Polymerus basalis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ron M.; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Polymerus basalis
What is Polymerus basalis?
Polymerus basalis is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Polymerus basalis?
5-5.8 mm (type series)
How do you identify Polymerus basalis?
It varies with more or less extended and obscure or almost obsolete brown markings.
Where is Polymerus basalis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | almost always on flowers |
| Range | e. NA to s. Calif. (QC‒ON to FL‒CA) / Mex. - Map |
What does Polymerus basalis eat?
The diet of the Polymerus basalis includes Feeds mostly on Asteraceae (Snodgrass et al. 1984).
When is Polymerus basalis active?
Polymerus basalis: seasonal activity - most abundant in the fall (Snodgrass et al. 1984).