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Milkweed Assassin Bug

Milkweed Assassin Bug

Zelus longipes

A species of Zelus

The milkweed Assassin Bug (Zelus longipes) targets all sorts of pests that affect crops, flowers, and grasses. And it was named milkweed assassin bug for its striking resemblance to the milkweed bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus). If you discover a milkweed Assassin Bug in your garden, be sure to leave it there as it is very beneficial for your plants!

General Info About Milkweed Assassin Bug
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Attributes of Milkweed Assassin Bug
Colors
Black
Red
Habitat
backyard
Adult Food Sources
Larger insects, various arthropods, beetles, caterpillars, spiders
Larva Food Source
Small insects, aphids, small caterpillars, leafhoppers, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Milkweed Assassin Bug
North America, Central America, South America, Argentina, The West Indies
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Life Cycle of Milkweed Assassin Bug
Egg Newly laid eggs of milkweed Assassin Bug are often cylindrical or barrel-shaped, exhibiting varied colors that might include shades of white or green, often deposited in secure locations on plants.
Nymph Emerging nymphs of milkweed Assassin Bug resemble miniature adults but lack fully developed wings. Changes include gradual growth and molting, with progressive development of wing pads, increased size, and color variations with each instar.
Adult Adult milkweed Assassin Bug are fully formed with elongated bodies, wings developed for flight, and distinguishable by their predatory behavior. Dimorphic sex characteristics emerge, with size and color adapting for mating and survival.
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Adult Size of Milkweed Assassin Bug
1.4 - 2 cm
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Interesting Facts About Milkweed Assassin Bug
Milkweed Assassin Bug can manipulate sticky substances on its legs to catch prey, a technique uncommon among non-web-producing arthropods.
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Scientific Classification of Milkweed Assassin Bug
Tips for Finding Milkweed Assassin Bug
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Adult Habitat of Milkweed Assassin Bug
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Milkweed Assassin Bug Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of milkweed Assassin Bug are typically laid on plant leaves or stems. Seeking the eggs, one should inspect the underside of leaves in vegetated areas. Nymphs, mimicking their predators, are commonly found among foliage, on tree bark, or on the ground, camouflaging with leaf litter to ambush prey. To find nymphs, search these habitats, carefully examining surfaces and debris. Adults are often seen on various plants, flowers, or shrubs where prey is abundant. To find adults, look in gardens, meadows, and fields, particularly where aphids and other small insects are present, as these are their primary food sources.
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Beneficial Effects of Milkweed Assassin Bug
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Aphids, Caterpillars, Small Insects
Milkweed Assassin Bug actively seeks out its prey in both adult and nymph stages. It voraciously feeds on pests such as aphids and caterpillars to sustain itself. Armed with a proboscis, it injects a paralyzing saliva to subdue its victims before consuming them, showcasing a fascinating yet brutal method of natural pest control.
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