Psallus mollis
This record describes Psallus mollis (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 4 mm. Mottled red, indistinguishable from several other similarly coloured Psallus spp. The pronotum and forewings are covered in scale like pale hairs and the tibial spines arise from black spots. Species identification of Psallus based on external features is often difficult and frequently impossible. Identification is complex and ideally requires microscopic examination. Dissection is required to differentiate P. mollis from other Psallus species. Local (British Heteroptera checklist (2021) - https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/systematic_het.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Feeds on Oak and also on Apple.
Seasonal Activity
Summer-Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Local (British Heteroptera checklist (2021) -
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Psallus mollis. 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 Psallus mollis (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Psallus mollis
What is Psallus mollis?
Psallus mollis is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Psallus mollis?
about 4 mm. Mottled red, indistinguishable from several other similarly coloured
How do you identify Psallus mollis?
is complex and ideally requires microscopic examination.
Where is Psallus mollis found?
Habitat: Feeds on Oak and also on Apple.
When is Psallus mollis active?
Psallus mollis: seasonal activity - Summer-Autumn..