Stygnocoris rusticus
This record describes Stygnocoris rusticus (species). Recorded family: Lygaeidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

Length 3-4mm. Dark pronotum, dorsal surface dull with a short pubescence. Usually brachypterous although fully-winged individuals do occur. 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. Unlike most ground bugs this species overwinters as eggs which hatch in the spring. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/heteroptera/Lygaeidae/stygnocoris_rusticus.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Lygaeoidea
- Family
- Lygaeidae (Dirt-colored Seed Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Rhyparochrominae
- Tribe
- Stygnocorini
- Genus
- Stygnocoris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Seasonal Activity
Summer-Autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Unlike most ground bugs this species overwinters as eggs which hatch in the spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local throughout the UK.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Stygnocoris rusticus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stygnocoris rusticus
What is Stygnocoris rusticus?
Stygnocoris rusticus is a species in the family Lygaeidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Stygnocoris rusticus?
3-4mm. Dark pronotum, dorsal surface dull with a short pubescence. Usually brachypterous although fully-winged individuals do occur.
When is Stygnocoris rusticus active?
Stygnocoris rusticus: seasonal activity - Summer-Autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Stygnocoris rusticus?
Unlike most ground bugs this species overwinters as eggs which hatch in the spring.
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