Polymerus nigrita
This record describes Polymerus nigrita (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4.5 mm. Polymerus species are medium-sized bugs which are predominantly black or black and yellow in colour. The upper surface is covered in scale-like golden or silver hairs and the tibiae bear strong black spines. This species can be identified with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On bedstraws in a variety of habitats
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June-September
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common across much of Britain
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Polymerus nigrita. 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 nigrita (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Polymerus nigrita
What is Polymerus nigrita?
Polymerus nigrita is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Polymerus nigrita?
4.5 mm.
Where is Polymerus nigrita found?
Habitat: On bedstraws in a variety of habitats
When is Polymerus nigrita active?
Polymerus nigrita: seasonal activity - Adult: June-September.