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Nov 4, 2024 · Assassin bugs, aka ambush bugs, have elongated bodies, long legs and a distinct, curved proboscis, which acts as their primary weapon. This proboscis allows them to inject toxins into their prey, liquefying the insides of dead prey insects for easy consumption.
Sep 14, 2023 · With over 7,000 species worldwide, these bugs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of assassin bugs, exploring their unique characteristics, life cycle, anatomy, behavior, habitat, and distribution.
Leafhopper Assassin Bug (Zelus renardii) – 0.4-0.6″. Long body with a cylindrical head, yellow-brown above and greenish-yellow below, with reddish corium. Found in variety of habitats. Eats insects. (photo © Patricia)
Like the predatory bugs, assassin bugs have beaks that are at least twice as thick as their antennae. However, the beaks are shorter, stouter, and curved. The beak tip fits into a groove between the front legs. The front legs may be raptorial, or grasping, like that of praying mantids.
Assassin bugs feed by external digestion, meaning they push their beak into their victim’s body and inject a toxic liquid that affects the nerves and liquefies the muscles and tissues of their insect prey.
Assassin bugs are a very large group with diverse body forms, but most are black or brown (sometimes orange, yellow, or red) with a rather oval body. The head is usually narrow and the antennae long, thin, and often jointed.
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Assassin bugs are characterised by having a distinct neck between the head and pronotum and a proboscis that curves back but is not held against the body. They are mostly elongated in body shape and measure up to 25 millimetres long.
