Assassin bugs

Beneficial insects associated with fruit orchards show different responses to diflubenzuron treatment (Broadbent and Pree 1984). Lacewings (Chrysopa oculata) in contact with leaves containing 300 mg/kg DW had reduced survival and inhibited molting of first instar larvae, but the assassin bug (Acholla multispinosa) was not affected by contact with treated leaves. Lacewings and other beneficial predator insects fed diflubenzuron-treated, two-spotted spider mites (Tetrany-chus urticae) for 3 days showed no adverse effects after 14 days (Broadbent and Pree 1984). 

Do assassin bugs really collect damar for its chemicals The resin serves their needs because it does not harden quickly but remains soft and sticky. Softness and stickiness are physical properties, but they are also direct consequences of the resin s chemical composition. It seems fair to credit the bugs employment of damar to its complex mix of chemicals. We could also ask whether green lacewing larvae appropriate aphid wool for its chemicals. In that case, the significance of chemical properties appears unequivocal, as the ants chemical sense evidently equates the waxy wool with aphids. 

Wash aphids from plants with a strong spray of water repeat as needed to control infestations. Encourage natural predators and parasites such as aphid midges, assassin bugs, iacewings, lady beetles, and spiders. If water sprays fail, apply homemade garlic or tomato-leaf sprays, or try sprays of alcohol, citrus oil, insecticidal soap, or neem. Use boric acid baits to control ants that herd aphids onto plants. As a last resort, spray or dust aphids with pyrethrin. 

Predatory insects such as lady beetles or ground beetles eat many other insects during their life cycles. Some have restricted tastes for example, aphid midges feed only on aphids. Others, like praying mantids or assassin bugs, may be able to eat almost any species of insect they catch. These general predators often eat pollen as well and may suck plant juices when food is scarce or they need water. 

Assassin bugs (Family Reduviidae) Many insects, including caterpillars, flies. Robust, voracious insects, with strong beaks to attack prey will squeak when handled can inflict a painful bite. Provide shelter in permanent plantings. 

Asparagus fern caterpillars, 29. See also Beet armyworms Asparagus miners, 29 Assassin bugs, 7,177,258,272,273, 448... 

Assassin bug, Acholla multispinosa, 251 Big-eyed bug, Geocoris punctipes, 251 Milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus, 284... 

The assassin bug Rhodnius prolixus sucking blood from a human. 

Edwards, J. S. Predation and Digestion in Assassin Bugs (Heteroptera, Reduviic e)-, University of Cambridge Cambridge, 1960. 

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