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Milkweed Assassin Bug

Zelus longipes

Description:

Order: Hemiptera (True bugs, hoppers), Sub-Order: Heteroptera: True bugs, Family: Reduviidae (assassin bugs) Subfamily: Harpactorinae. Size: .35 inches (9 mm). Black and white striped legs and antenna, head and injector, bright orange abdomen with white spots. Top of wings black. Also known as Long-legged assassin bug. Beneficial bug feeding on soft-bodied insects and earthworms.

Habitat:

Meadow with abundant weeds and flowers

Notes:

I almost didn't upload this spot because I was not pleased with the photos. However, Project Noah isn't about perfect photos, it is about our discoveries. You never know what you have. I hope I get a second spot soon. First time ever seeing this gorgeous and unique insect.

No species ID suggestions

Pennsylvania, USA

Lat: 40.87, Long: -75.61

Spotted on Sep 22, 2012
Submitted on Sep 24, 2012

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