Apiomerus

Apiomerus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Apiomerus: /ˌæpiˈoʊmɛrəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Apiomerus spissipes by cricketsblog. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Bee Assassin - Apiomerus crassipes with Japanese Beetle, Patuxent Research Refuge, North Tract, Laurel, Maryland - Flickr - Judy Gallagher by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Apiomerus crassipes by Mike Boone. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.5 license.
Apiomerus crassipes DSC00796a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Apiomerus crassipes DSC00798a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Apiomerus crassipes DSC00797a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Apiomerus is a genus of conspicuous, brightly colored assassin bugs known for their predacious habits, particularly on bees. With about 110 described species, they are primarily found in the Americas, excluding areas in the Pacific Northwest.

Physical Characteristics

Variably colored: red with blackish-brown markings or brown with yellowish markings. Dense short hair on head, thorax, and legs. Distance between simple eyes greater than the distance between compound eyes. Second antennal segment comb-like, not subdivided into small ringlike units. Nymphs are dark and reddish.

Identification Tips

Look for brightly colored assassin bugs that sit on flowers. They are often found waiting to ambush bees, which is reflected in their common name 'bee assassins'.

Habitat

Meadows, fields, gardens, deserts, mountains, coastal regions.

Distribution

N. US to Argentina; transcontinental in the US, with greatest diversity in the southwest. Currently, 10 species are known in the US.

Diet

Voracious predators, primarily of other insects, especially bees.

Life Cycle

1 generation or more per year in the North. Eggs are attached to foliage.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid on foliage, where they are protected by a sticky resin that may deter predators.

Predators

Other insects, likely including larger predatory insects.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of various insects, which helps control pest populations.

Cultural Significance

Their bright colors serve as a warning to potential predators about their painful bite. They are commonly observed in gardens and fields, influencing local biodiversity.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting
  • Hand collection
  • Sticky traps

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol
  • Pinning
  • Drying

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

They are often mistaken for harmless bugs but are capable of delivering a painful bite.

Tags

  • insects
  • Reduviidae
  • predators
  • apiomerus
  • bee assassins