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Wheel Bug

Arilus cristatus

Description:

About 1.5" in length. Possesses wheel-shaped pronotal armor. Adults are gray to brownish-gray in color, but turn black after molting.

Habitat:

Generally found where prey is abundant. Leafy areas, flower-filled areas, etc.

Notes:

Sometimes called an Assassin Bug. Considered an apex predator in the world of insects. A very beneficial insect as they control many insect pests. They can fly, but noisily and clumsily. Possesses a claw-like beak that can inflict a nasty bite - use caution when handling.

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2 Comments

BethAngermeier
BethAngermeier 9 years ago

Thanks, Ed :)

EdGriggs
EdGriggs 9 years ago

Wow. This a cool insect Beth. great shooting.

BethAngermeier
Spotted by
BethAngermeier

Evansville, Indiana, USA

Spotted on Nov 21, 2013
Submitted on Nov 24, 2013

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