Assassin Bugs

Wheel Bug (Instar), Arilus cristatus

Assassin bugs, mentioned many times before, are the largest of the true bugs, the Hemiptera order of insects. The key difference of distinguishing true bugs are their specialized mouth parts, proboscis, that are used to suck fluids. For an assassin bug, this beak is used to inject toxic enzymes into their prey to paralyze, kill, and dissolve the insides for consumption. While this also means they will deliver a painful bite if poorly handled, they are considered beneficial to gardens as they kill a number of pests.

Another busy day and so another short, summarized visit to one of my favorite insects.