Fitchia aptera
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
- Family: Reduviidae
- Subfamily: Harpactorinae
- Tribe: Harpactorini
- Genus: Fitchia
- Species: aptera
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Fitchia aptera: /ˈfɪtʃ.i.ə æpˈtɛr.ə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Fitchia aptera is a North American species of assassin bug that inhabits old fields, primarily found from Canada down to the southern United States. It is a predatory insect known for its role in controlling pest populations.
Physical Characteristics
11-12 mm in length
Identification Tips
Recognizable due to its predatory behavior and body shape typical of assassin bugs.
Habitat
On the ground about grass clumps in old fields.
Distribution
Found in North America, notably from New Brunswick and Ontario south to Florida, Texas, and Utah.
Diet
Carnivorous, primarily preying on other insects.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages; details about duration at each stage are not provided.
Reproduction
Details on reproductive habits are not provided.
Predators
No specific predators mentioned.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated; specific conservation status not provided.
Ecosystem Role
Predatory insects that help control pest populations.
Economic Impact
Economic impact details not provided.
Cultural Significance
Cultural significance details not provided.
Health Concerns
Health concerns details not provided.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep netting in grassy areas
- Hand collection from vegetation
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning under entomological pins
Evolution
Not discussed in provided data.
Misconceptions
May be confused with similar-looking but non-predatory insects.
Tags
- Fitchia aptera
- Assassin bugs
- Reduviidae
- Harpactorinae