Stenodema calcarata
This record describes Stenodema calcarata (species). Recorded family: Miridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 7-8 mm. Stenodema species are elongate grass bugs with a longitudinal furrow between the eyes. The genus is best distinguished by the coarsely and densely pitted pronotum, although the two spurs on the hind femora of Stenodema calcarata make this species unmistakeable. After emerging in the Spring, the females turn green whilst the males remain straw-coloured. Late-instar nymphs have a single femoral spur. This species can be identified from good quality photographs with care but there are similar species that it could be confused with. Grassy places, especially in drier areas - both adults and larvae feed on the unripe grains of a number of grasses. This bug overwinters as an adult and emerges in April. The new generation is complete by August.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassy places, especially in drier areas - both adults and larvae feed on the unripe grains of a number of grasses.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: all year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This bug overwinters as an adult and emerges in April. The new generation is complete by August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common throughout.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Stenodema calcarata. 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 Stenodema calcarata (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stenodema calcarata
What is Stenodema calcarata?
Stenodema calcarata is a species in the family Miridae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Stenodema calcarata?
7-8 mm.
Where is Stenodema calcarata found?
Habitat: Grassy places, especially in drier areas - both adults and larvae feed on the unripe grains of a number of grasses.
When is Stenodema calcarata active?
Stenodema calcarata: seasonal activity - Adult: all year..
What is the life cycle of a Stenodema calcarata?
This bug overwinters as an adult and emerges in April. The new generation is complete by August.