Host Plants:
Where Found:
Worldwide in most temperate climates
Description:
Mirid bugs are usually oval or elongated in shape with a triangular-shaped segment at the base of their wings. The head is angled downwards from their body and features a long needle-like feeding tube that is used to spear prey and suck their blood. Nymphs (or larvae) are usually similar in appearance to the adults, but without wings. Mirids usually overwinter as eggs.
Beneficial Because:
Mirid bugs can contribute to the control of many different plant pests. For this reason they should be encouraged wherever possible.
Food and Habitat:
Mirid bugs are common wherever there is an abundant food source. Some mirid species prey exclusively on soft-bodied invertebrates, while others also feed on plant sap if they have depleted prey numbers, causing distorted leaf growth and leaving puncture marks in fruits.
Attracting More:
Allow patches of wild plants (in particular nettles) to grow in the garden. Tolerate small aphid outbreaks in spring to help support a thriving population of mirid bugs.
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