Sigara fossarum
This record describes Sigara fossarum (species). Recorded family: Corixidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length = 6.1mm. 5-6 pale transverse lines on the thorax. There is a dark patch near inner angle of the corium and in middle of clavus. Male palae have base and upper margin relatively square and the pegs form a diagonal line to reach the upper margin This is one of several very similar Corixidae species of water boatmen. Detailed examination is necessary for identification of species. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Found in ponds or still water, usually among emergent vegetation. It is less common in moving water. All year round, though most frequently encountered in summer months. It may be attracted to light. The bugs overwinter as adults and have a spring and summer generation. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in ponds or still water, usually among emergent vegetation. It is less common in moving water.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, though most frequently encountered in summer months. It may be attracted to light.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The bugs overwinter as adults and have a spring and summer generation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Sigara fossarum. 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 Sigara fossarum (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sigara fossarum
What is Sigara fossarum?
Sigara fossarum is a species in the family Corixidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Sigara fossarum?
= 6.1mm. 5-6 pale transverse lines on the thorax. There is a dark patch near inner angle of the corium and in middle of clavus. Male palae have base and upper margin relatively square and the pegs form a diagonal line to reach the upper margin
Where is Sigara fossarum found?
Habitat: Found in ponds or still water, usually among emergent vegetation. It is less common in moving water.
When is Sigara fossarum active?
Sigara fossarum: seasonal activity - All year round, though most frequently encountered in summer months. It may be attracted to light..
What is the life cycle of a Sigara fossarum?
The bugs overwinter as adults and have a spring and summer generation.