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Giant Mesquite Bug

Thasus neocalifornicus

Published on Project Noah
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18.9947, -99.0637

Field Notes

Description:

"The bright, conspicuous colors of the Giant Mesquite Bug nymphs are a form of aposematic coloration meant to warn potential predators that they are not good to eat. If bothered, the flightless nymphs will produce a stinky secretion to repel predators not already warned off by their bright colors. I have never observed birds bothering Giant Mesquite Bug nymphs, and my dogs avoid any that fall on the ground."

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (28)

Wonderful photos! Very nice & congrats. I like the paddles on the antennas.. I wonder as to why they are present..
Thanks so much for sharing such an amazing creature with us!
Welcome to Project Noah Yofran! You're off to a great start. This beautiful set has been selected as Spotting of the Day! Congratulations! "The bright colors of the Giant Mesquite Bug nymphs are meant to warn potential predators that they are not good to eat." Follow the conversation here: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151716361015603&set=a.10151164681410603.791492.10150120463815603&type=1&theater Twitter: http://twitter.com/projectnoah/status/202605429199605760
Espectacular bien futurista lo mas parecido a partes de un robot
Que tal la belleza de insecto :)
That's fantastic! What striking markings!
Photographed
PublishedMay 15, 2012

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