Thread-legged Bugs

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Emesinae: /ˈɛmɪsaɪniː/

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Summary

The Emesinae are a subfamily of assassin bugs known for their slender bodies and predatory behavior, with many species being nocturnal and specialized in hunting spiders. They are global in distribution but are most diverse in tropical areas. Significant taxonomic uncertainties remain.

Physical Characteristics

The Emesinae, or thread-legged bugs, have a very slender body form, typically measuring 3–40 mm with most species usually being less than 10 mm.

Identification Tips

They are recognized by their elongated appearance and raptorial front legs, which are adapted for predation.

Habitat

Commonly found in barns, cellars, old buildings, under loose bark, in tufts of grass, or brush piles. They are largely nocturnal, with some species residing in spider webs.

Distribution

Cosmopolitan, but most abundant in tropical regions. The majority of diversity is found in Africa and among tropical islands.

Diet

They feed on other insects or spiders; some species engage in kleptoparasitism by stealing prey from spider webs.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, they play a role in controlling insect populations.

Collecting Methods

• Collected on palm fronds
• Near lights at night (including blacklight)
• From spider webbing

Evolution

The group has been subject to cladistic analysis, suggesting that the Emesinae may be polyphyletic with respect to other subfamilies like Saicinae and Visayanocorinae.

Tags

• Emesinae
• Thread-legged bugs
• Hemiptera
• Reduviidae