Scolopostethus affinis
This record describes Scolopostethus affinis (species). Recorded family: Lygaeidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.5-4.5 mm. A difficult genus including some common species; all have one large and several small spines on the underside of the front femur. The sides of the pronotum have a large pale spot just behind the middle. The critical features in S. affinis are the short wing membrane (about 3 times wider than it is long), and the antennal pattern; the 1st and 2nd segments are pale, and the 3rd and 4th segments dark with the base of the 3rd pale. Confirmation of this species requires views of the underside to check for the presence of mesothoracic tubercles (also present on S. grandis) - needs photos from the side with a clear view of the underside between forelegs and middle legs. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species (a photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are too small or hidden). Confirmation of this species requires views of the underside to check for the presence or absence of mesothoracic tubercles (also present on S. grandis). Need photos from the side with a clear view of the underside between forelegs and middle legs. Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often on nettle clumps.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: all year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Scolopostethus affinis. 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 Scolopostethus affinis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scolopostethus affinis
What is Scolopostethus affinis?
Scolopostethus affinis is a species in the family Lygaeidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Scolopostethus affinis?
3.5-4.5 mm. A difficult genus including some common species; all have one large and several small spines on the underside of the front femur. The sides of the pronotum have a large pale spot just behind the middle. The critical features in
Where is Scolopostethus affinis found?
Habitat: Often on nettle clumps.
When is Scolopostethus affinis active?
Scolopostethus affinis: seasonal activity - Adult: all year..