Rhacognathus americanus
This record describes Rhacognathus americanus (species). Recorded family: Pentatomidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

Species is likely extirpated from much of its former range, and possibly extinct. S. Paiero searched extensively for records of this species but was unable to confirm any records more recent than 1966.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Pentatomoidea
- Family
- Pentatomidae (Stink Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Asopinae
- Genus
- Rhacognathus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Canada west to AB & n. US south to MA-IL-NE
Diet and Behavior
Life History
nothing is known of this species' life history
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Rhacognathus americanus (Stål 1870)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Rhacognathus americanus. 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 Rhacognathus americanus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Andrew Meeds , Mike Quinn , drswanny
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhacognathus americanus
What is Rhacognathus americanus?
Rhacognathus americanus is a species in the family Pentatomidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Rhacognathus americanus?
9-11 mm
Where is Rhacognathus americanus found?
Range: Canada west to AB & n. US south to MA-IL-NE
What is the life cycle of a Rhacognathus americanus?
nothing is known of this species' life history
FROM LOOKING IT UP TO GETTING TO KNOW IT
Make sense of the bugs at home.50 household bug profiles for you. Photos, coloring, and activities for curious kids.


