Psallus montanus
This record describes Psallus montanus (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length ~5mm. Females have deep blood red coloration and red femorae. Males are dark or reddish and indistinguishable from P. betuleti , with which this species was confused until very recently. Dissection of male specimen required to confirm ID, please supply habitus photos plus images of aedeagus. Photos of females should clearly show red femorae https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Miridae/Psallus_montanus.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Birch.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Uncommon in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Psallus montanus. 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 montanus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Psallus montanus
What is Psallus montanus?
Psallus montanus is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Psallus montanus?
~5mm. Females have deep blood red coloration and red femorae. Males are dark or reddish and indistinguishable from
Where is Psallus montanus found?
Habitat: On Birch.
When is Psallus montanus active?
Psallus montanus: seasonal activity - Summer..