Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 42

The Himacerus mirmicoides bugs are named for their resemblance to ants in the early stages of their life cycle. They are found in most of Europe and inhabit areas with low herbage and dry open spaces. These bugs can reach a length of 7-8 millimetres and have a brown body with a black connexivum displaying orange-red spots. They have partly-winged reddish wings and shorter hairs on their hind tibiae. Adults can be found throughout the year, with mating and egg-laying beginning in spring and the new generation emerging by August.