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Title: Family miridae - the plant bugs

Author
item WHEELER, A. - CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, SC
item Henry, Thomas

Submitted to: Encyclopedia of Entomology
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/9/2003
Publication Date: 8/15/2004
Citation: Wheeler, A.G., Henry, T.J. 2004. Family miridae - the plant bugs. In: Capinera, J. Encyclopedia of Entomology. Oxford, UK: Kluwer Academic Publishers. 1737-1742.

Interpretive Summary: Plant bugs represent the largest family of true bugs and contains numerous agriculturally important species. Many plant bugs are important crop pests, causing significant economic losses in the United States. In addition, a growing number of these are now recognized as predators of various pest insects. This paper presents an overview of the classification, morphology, habitats and host plants, life history and habits, economic importance, and natural enemies of these important insects. The information presented in this paper will help a wide array of researchers, regulatory personnel, and the general public to better understand and recognize members of this large and diverse group of economically important bugs.

Technical Abstract: Presented for the true bug family Miridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera), commonly called plant bugs, is an overview of the classification, morphology, habitats and host plants, life history and habits, economic importance, and natural enemies. Adult illustrations providing examples of seven of the eight subfamilies are included.