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Wheel Bug

Arilus cristatus

Published on Project Noah
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37.9934, -87.5095

Field Notes

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.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)

Wow. This a cool insect Beth. great shooting.

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