Stictopleurus punctatonervosus
This record describes Stictopleurus punctatonervosus (species). Recorded family: Rhopalidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 7 to 8 mm. The genus is characterised by the banded connexivum and the spatulate tip to the scutellum. There are two very similar species which are best separated with reference to the fine detail of the pronotum. In Stictopleurus punctatonervosus , the dark furrow behind the anterior margin includes two half circles (full circles in the similar S. abutilon ) and the pronotum has a incomplete (broken) transverse ridge. The narrow band in front of the furrow is covered in tiny punctures. Note that these markings are not always easy to discern and the specimen should be checked for all the above features. Photos need to show details of pronotum. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species. Adult: All year; new generation complete by August. Previously rare in the UK but now well established. The distribution was initially centred around the Thames gateway area of Kent and Essex, but this species is now found throughout much of south and central England. Stictopleurus punctatonervosus means Spotted-sided bug with punctured wing veins, referring to the pitted punctures on the side of the thorax and the dark-spotted vein patterns on the wings.
Wikipedia reference for Stictopleurus punctatonervosus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stictopleurus_punctatonervosus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Rhopalidae
- Genus
- Stictopleurus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Favours dry grassland habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: All year; new generation complete by August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Previously rare in the UK but now well established. The distribution was initially centred around the Thames gateway area of Kent and Essex, but this species is now found throughout much of south and central England.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Stictopleurus punctatonervosus. 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 Stictopleurus punctatonervosus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stictopleurus punctatonervosus
What is Stictopleurus punctatonervosus?
Stictopleurus punctatonervosus is a species in the family Rhopalidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Stictopleurus punctatonervosus?
7 to 8 mm. The genus is characterised by the banded connexivum and the spatulate tip to the scutellum. There are two very similar species which are best separated with reference to the fine detail of the pronotum.
Where is Stictopleurus punctatonervosus found?
Habitat: Favours dry grassland habitats.
When is Stictopleurus punctatonervosus active?
Stictopleurus punctatonervosus: seasonal activity - Adult: All year; new generation complete by August..