Stenotus binotatus (Fabricus, 1794)

Commonly known as Two-spotted Grass Bug.

Length: 6 to 7mm

Family: Miridae

Adult Season: June to September

Stenotus binotatus is a common and widespread species of “Plant bugs” throughout most of the UK and likewise across Europe. It is also established in North America, Canada and throughout New Zealand.
Visually its markings and colouration can vary, in maturity, the markings become bolder and its colouration becomes deeper.

Habitat: Found in a variety of dry grasslands and meadows, seen mainly feeding on seed and flower heads of a wide range of grasses.

The nymphs as well as the adults will feed mainly on the flowering heads of grasses. Can be a serious pest when on crops such as wheat.

Other common names for this species being, timothy plant bug and slender crop mirid.