Dysdercus; Print; Dysdercus is a widespread genus of true bugs in the family Pyrrhocoridae; commonly referred to as "cotton stainers" or "red cotton bugs". They are often confused with bugs in the family Lygaeidae; but can be distinguished by the lack of ocelli on the head. They can be readily distinguished from most other genera of Pyrrhocoridae by the strong white markings at the junction of the head and thorax; and along the sides of the thorax; and often abdomen.