Strophingia ericae
This record describes Strophingia ericae (species). Recorded family: Liviidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small greenish or brown psyllid associated with heather, Calluna vulgaris . Wing venation is reduced, and there are no genal cones. The forewings are mottled, rounded and oval, and have a leathery appearance, Strophingia cinereae is similar, but with more angular, yellowish wings, and is associated with Bell Heather Erica cinerea. Rhinocola aceris has a similar shape and is also very small, but associated mainly with Field Maple. Good close-up images required, of a specimen; note habitat and associated plant species. Heathland; heather or ling ( Calluna vulgaris ) Common and widespread (ref.: British Bugs website; link below) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Psylloidea/Strophingia_ericae.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Heathland; heather or ling (
Seasonal Activity
Adult: April to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This species overwinters as nymphs.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread (ref.: British Bugs website; link below)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Strophingia ericae. 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 Strophingia ericae (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Strophingia ericae
What is Strophingia ericae?
Strophingia ericae is a species in the family Liviidae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Strophingia ericae found?
Habitat: Heathland; heather or ling (
When is Strophingia ericae active?
Strophingia ericae: seasonal activity - Adult: April to September..
What is the life cycle of a Strophingia ericae?
This species overwinters as nymphs.