Nabis americolimbatus
Carayon, 1961
damsel bug
Nabis americolimbatus is a small predatory true in the Nabidae, commonly known as a damsel bug. The was described by Carayon in 1961 and has a Holarctic distribution, occurring in both North America and Europe. Like other damsel bugs, it is a that feeds on other insects.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nabis americolimbatus: /ˈneɪbɪs əˌmɛrɪkoʊlɪmˈbætəs/
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Identification
Damsel bugs in the Nabis can be distinguished from similar-looking plant bugs (Miridae) by the absence of a —a pronounced notch or wrinkle in the margin of the front wing where the leathery portion meets the membranous tip. From assassin bugs (Reduviidae), they are generally separable by their smaller size (under 12 mm) and relatively shorter rostrum. Nabis typically have a swollen, muscular front armed with teeth on the underside for securing prey.
Distribution
Holarctic, with records from North America and Europe & Northern Asia (excluding China).
Behavior
. Damsel bugs in the Nabis have been observed stalking and subduing insect prey, including prey larger than themselves. They are often attracted to artificial lights at night, possibly to prey on other insects drawn there.
Ecological Role
of other insects. Damsel bugs are considered economically important as natural pest control agents in agricultural systems.
Human Relevance
Considered beneficial in agricultural contexts due to on pest insects. Not known to bite humans unless handled; any defensive bite would be painful but not dangerous.
Similar Taxa
- Miridae (plant bugs)Lack the (notch in wing margin) that mirids possess; rostrum typically shorter relative to body.
- Reduviidae (assassin bugs)Generally smaller size (under 12 mm vs. usually larger); shorter rostrum; less robust build.
- PagasaAnother damsel bug , but Pagasa are often ground-dwelling, sometimes wingless or with reduced wings, and have a specialized fossa spongiosa (pad of hairs) on the front tibia for gripping slippery prey.