Harpactorini

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
Family: Reduviidae
Subfamily: Harpactorinae
Tribe: Harpactorini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Harpactorini: //hɑːrpækˈtɔːrɪnaɪ//

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

Images

Orange Assassin Bug (Pselliopus barberi) by Wildreturn. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Orange Assassin Bug - Pselliopus barberi, Rippon Lodge, Woodbridge, Virginia, October 22, 2022 (52669813883) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Atrachelus cinereus (48749122642) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pselliopus barberi by Cyndy Sims Parr. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Pselliopus cinctus (41238563945) by Melissa McMasters from Memphis, TN, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Arilus cristatus P1080964a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Harpactorini is a highly diverse tribe within the Harpactorinae subfamily of assassin bugs, comprising more than 2000 species across nearly 300 genera worldwide. They are recognized for specific morphological characteristics, particularly their modified pronota, which distinguish members of this tribe from other assassin bugs.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the Harpactorini tribe exhibit exaggerated modifications of the pronotum; notable examples include the wheel bug (Arilus) and the divided posterior pronotal lobe in Ulpius. The tribe is characterized by a diverse range of body shapes and sizes across its genera.

Identification Tips

Look for unique pronotal features, particularly the distinct wheel structure in Arilus and the lobe in Ulpius. Additionally, the general morphology can vary widely among the numerous genera present within this tribe.

Habitat

Harpactorini species can be found in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas, with a substantial number occurring in the Neotropical region.

Distribution

Over 2000 species across nearly 300 genera worldwide, with significant diversity concentrated in the Neotropical region, particularly 51 recognized genera.

Diet

As members of the assassin bug family, Harpactorini are primarily predatory, feeding on other small insects and arthropods.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Harpactorini involves an egg phase, several nymphal stages, and adult stages, with the nymphs resembling small adults without fully developed wings.

Reproduction

Details about specific reproductive behaviors within Harpactorini are minimal, but they typically lay eggs in protected areas. Mating habits can vary by genus.

Ecosystem Role

They serve as important biological control agents in their ecosystems by preying on pest insects, contributing to the regulation of insect populations.

Economic Impact

Due to their role in controlling pest populations, they may have a positive economic impact in agricultural settings.