Striped Oak Bug
Rhabdomiris striatellus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
- Superfamily: Miroidea
- Family: Miridae
- Subfamily: Mirinae
- Tribe: Mirini
- Genus: Rhabdomiris
- Species: striatellus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhabdomiris striatellus: /ræb.doʊˈmaɪ.rɪs striː.əˈtɛl.əs/
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Summary
Rhabdomiris striatellus, commonly known as the Striped Oak Bug, is a bug found widely across Europe and into Asia Minor, typically associated with oak trees. It is relatively small and recognizable by its wing markings and coloration, with notable predatory behavior towards aphids and insect larvae.
Physical Characteristics
Body reaches 7–9 millimetres (0.3–0.4 in) in length; yellow to reddish brown with yellow veins and dark stripes on the wings. It can also appear much darker, resembling its relative Miris striatus.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive yellow veins and dark stripes on the wings. Compared to its relative, it may appear darker in coloration.
Habitat
Associated with oak trees, commonly found in woodland areas.
Distribution
Widespread throughout Europe (except extreme north and southern Mediterranean) and east across Asia Minor to the Caucasus. First reported in North America (NY) in 2016.
Diet
Nymphs suck on flowers and fruits, while adults feed on aphids and larvae of other insects.
Ecosystem Role
Plays a role in controlling aphid populations and may affect the populations of other insects it preys upon.
Collecting Methods
- Netting
- Hand collecting
Preservation Methods
- Pinned specimens
- Alcohol preservation
Similar Taxa
- Miris striatus
Tags
- Rhabdomiris striatellus
- Striped Oak Bug
- Hemiptera
- Insect
- Oak-associated species