Pselliopus

Bergroth, 1905

orange assassin bugs

Species Guides

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Pselliopus is a of assassin bugs in the Reduviidae, Harpactorinae. The genus contains 27 described restricted to the New World. Several species, particularly Pselliopus barberi, are noted for their bright orange and black coloration and relatively large size. Members of this genus are predatory insects that have been observed feeding on various prey including aphids, leafhoppers, and bees. Some species are considered potential agents for pest management.

Pselliopus punctipes by no rights reserved, uploaded by Sinaloa Silvestre. Used under a CC0 license.Pselliopus by no rights reserved. Used under a CC0 license.Pselliopus by (c) John Abrams, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by John Abrams. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pselliopus: /psɛ.lɪˈoʊ.pəs/

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

Identification

in this can be distinguished from other Harpactorinae by their often conspicuous orange and black striped coloration, relatively large body size compared to many other assassin bugs, and long legs. Pselliopus barberi specifically shows bright orange with black "jailhouse stripes." The genus can be separated from the similar milkweed assassin bug (Zelus longipes) by differences in color pattern and leg structure—Zelus longipes has distinctly sticky forelegs adapted for prey capture, while Pselliopus species lack this and instead rely on stealth and ambush.

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Habitat

in this have been observed in meadow , on flowering plants such as goldenrod, and in ornamental landscapes. Pselliopus spinicollis has been documented on tarweed (Madia elegans) in California. Pselliopus barberi is frequently associated with goldenrod blossoms and other herbaceous vegetation in open, sunny areas.

Distribution

Restricted to the New World. Documented from the United States (including Vermont and southern states), Mexico, and Central and South America. Specific distribution varies by .

Seasonality

and nymphs have been observed active in late summer and autumn. In temperate regions, activity likely corresponds with prey availability during growing seasons.

Diet

Predatory. Pselliopus barberi has been observed feeding on leafhoppers and aphids. Pselliopus cinctus has been documented stalking bees. Pselliopus spinicollis feeds on dead insects (carrion) as well as live prey. Nymphs of Pselliopus barberi have been photographed feeding on crapemyrtle aphids (Sarucallis kahawaluokalani).

Life Cycle

with , nymph, and stages. Specific details of egg-laying and stages are not documented for most in the .

Behavior

Ambush that moves slowly and stealthily to approach prey. Lacks the sticky forelegs used by some other assassin bugs for prey capture, instead relying on careful stalking and rapid strike with the . Has been observed waiting motionless on flowers for visiting insects.

Ecological Role

that contributes to of herbivorous insects. In California tarweed systems, Pselliopus spinicollis increased in abundance when insect carrion was experimentally added to plants, resulting in reduced herbivory and increased plant . Serves as a , leafhoppers, and other small arthropods in ornamental and natural landscapes.

Human Relevance

Some are of interest as potential biological pest control agents. Pselliopus barberi and related species contribute to natural suppression of on crapemyrtle and other ornamental plants. No documented negative impacts on humans; like all assassin bugs, can deliver a painful bite if handled carelessly.

Similar Taxa

More Details

Taxonomic note

The was established by Bergroth in 1905 and contains 27 described as of recent counts.

Research significance

Pselliopus spinicollis was a key in a landmark study demonstrating that plant-trapped insect carrion can enhance indirect plant defense by increasing predator abundance, reducing herbivory, and increasing plant .

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Sources and further reading