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Jagged Ambush Bug
Phymata pennsylvanica
45.0029, -93.1245
Field Notes
Description:
Phymata is derived from the Greek "Phyma", which means tumor or swelling--and one can see why this strange, armored, lumpy-looking insect got its name. Length is about 3/8". Front legs are configured for grasping, much like the mantids. There are 17 species in North America.
Habitat:
I photographed this mating pair in an old, overgrown field. They tend to like to lie in ambush for their insect prey on yellow flowers, such as goldenrod.
Notes:
I've seen these rather diminutive insects take large and dangerous prey, such as honeybees.
Reference Links:
Phymatinae
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedMarch 21, 2012
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