Aradidae – Flat Bugs

Flat bugs, or Aradidae, are a group of true bugs recognised by their strongly flattened bodies, which allow them to live in narrow spaces such as under bark and within decaying wood. In New Zealand they are usually associated with damp forest habitats, where they can be very easy to overlook.

Many flat bugs are thought to be associated with fungi and rotting wood rather than living plants. They form part of New Zealand’s lesser-known true bug fauna and are often found beneath loose bark, in fallen timber, or among decomposing forest debris.

For more observations you can check out my iNaturalist.

Used in Photowarehouse Kase closeup article

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