Description

This species of assassin bug is found under the bark of trees and on the foliage in SA’s northern mallee.

They are a medium sized species, growing to about 15mm in length.

They are a combination of black and a multitude of warm, fiery colours. However on the abdomen, there are a few blue spots that stand out when viewed up close.

Assassin bugs are true bugs (Hemiptera) which means they have a hollow, tube-like proboscis instead of jaws, like the usually similar beetles (Coleoptera).

They are stealth predators (unlike most bugs, which are sap feeders on plants) that stalk their prey until they are close enough to impale with the proboscis and release a digestive enzyme to liquify the preys inside.

Assassin bugs are timid but have painful bites.

Feed a few small crickets 2 – 3 times a week. Remove uneaten prey or leftovers after 24 hours.

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