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Miris striatus
Family: Miridae

A distinctively large and well-marked species, which should be unmistakeable. The cuneus varies from yellow to orange-red, but is never black-tipped (unlike the smaller and more rounded Rhabdomiris striatellus, which occurs in similar habitats). The rather ant-like nymphs are dark with yellow markings and reddish-brown legs.

This species may be found throughout Britain, but is more local in the south. It is usually associated with oak and hawthorn and is largely predatory, feeding on small insects such as aphids, and the eggs and larvae of moths and beetles.

Overwintered eggs hatch in April, becoming adult by late May or early June. 

Adult: May-July
Length 9-11 mm
Miris striatus
Adult: Worcs (May 2005) ©John Bingham

Miris striatus Miris striatus
Adult: south London (1992) ©Roger Key

Adult: Surrey (June 2009) ©Tristan Bantock

Miris striatus Miris striatus
Adult: Berks (June 2009) ©Jonathan Michaelson

Adult: north London (June 2009) ©Tristan Bantock

Miris striatus nymph Miris striatus nymph
Nymph: north London (May 2008) ©Tristan Bantock
Nymph: Notts (May 2008) ©Jerry Clough