Ptochiomera nodosa
This record describes Ptochiomera nodosa (species). Recorded family: Rhyparochromidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Ptochiomera nodosa (Ptochiomera nodosa) is a species in the family Rhyparochromidae, commonly known as dirt-colored seed bugs, belonging to the order Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies). It is classified within the subfamily Rhyparochrominae, tribe Myodochini, suborder Heteroptera, superfamily Lygaeoidea. This species belongs to the genus Ptochiomera. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 3-3.5 mm. It is found in temporary habitats (roadsides, parking lots). Active during mostly: Jun-Oct.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Lygaeoidea
- Family
- Rhyparochromidae (Dirt-colored Seed Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Rhyparochrominae
- Tribe
- Myodochini
- Genus
- Ptochiomera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
temporary habitats (roadsides, parking lots)
Geographic Range
e US (TX-FL-NY-IA) / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Jun-Oct ( 3 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: seeds of Rumex , Agropyron repens , Plantago , Euphorbia maculata
Life History
2 generations a year; adults overwinter
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ptochiomera nodosa Say 1832
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Ptochiomera nodosa. 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 Ptochiomera nodosa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , onegunah
Frequently Asked Questions About Ptochiomera nodosa
What is Ptochiomera nodosa?
Ptochiomera nodosa is a species in the family Rhyparochromidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Ptochiomera nodosa?
3-3.5 mm
Where is Ptochiomera nodosa found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | temporary habitats (roadsides, parking lots) |
| Range | e US (TX-FL-NY-IA) / Mex. - Map |
What does Ptochiomera nodosa eat?
The diet of the Ptochiomera nodosa includes seeds of Rumex , Agropyron repens , Plantago , Euphorbia maculata.
When is Ptochiomera nodosa active?
Ptochiomera nodosa: seasonal activity - mostly: Jun-Oct ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Ptochiomera nodosa?
2 generations a year; adults overwinter