Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae
This record describes Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae (species). Recorded family: Blissidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
All specimens from Oklahoma were taken on M. reverchonii , a short bushy grass, whereas those in Texas were collected mostly on the much larger M. lindheimeri , with only a few found on the co-occurring M. reverchonii .
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Arbuckle Mountains, OK and Edward’s Plateau, TX
Geographic Range
sc OK, c. TX - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly Apr-May, less common in June
Diet and Behavior
Life History
collected on Muhlenbergia lindheimeri and M. reverchonii (Poaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae Henry and Sweet, 2015
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae. 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 Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae
What is Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae?
Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae is a species in the family Blissidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae?
Length: males 3.3–3.85 mm females 3.9–4.8 mm
Where is Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Arbuckle Mountains, OK and Edward’s Plateau, TX |
| Range | sc OK, c. TX - Map |
When is Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae active?
Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae: seasonal activity - mostly Apr-May, less common in June.
What is the life cycle of a Wheelerodemus muhlenbergiae?
collected on Muhlenbergia lindheimeri and M. reverchonii (Poaceae)