Lygaeus
Lygaeus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Lygaeoidea
- Family: Lygaeidae
- Subfamily: Lygaeinae
- Genus: Lygaeus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lygaeus: //laɪˈdʒiːəs//
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Images
Summary
Lygaeus is a genus of seed bugs within the family Lygaeidae, recognized for more than 60 described species. They are primarily solitary and are known for their distinctive solitary photographs or mating pairs, contrasting with other genera that form groups.
Physical Characteristics
6.5-13.0 mm in size; members of the genus Lygaeus exhibit typical features of seed bugs.
Identification Tips
Typically solitary and often photographed singly or in mating pairs, distinguishing them from similar genera like Oncopeltus, which form colonies, particularly during the nymphal stage.
Distribution
Worldwide except for the Australian Region; 6-7 species are found in our area, 16 in the New World, and a total of about 70 described species.
Diet
Primarily feed on seeds and plant material.
Ecosystem Role
Lygaeus species play a role in seed dispersal and may affect plant populations.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Lygaeus
- seed bugs
- Lygaeidae
- entomology