Zelus
Zelus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
- Family: Reduviidae
- Subfamily: Harpactorinae
- Tribe: Harpactorini
- Genus: Zelus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Zelus: /ˈziː.ləs/
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Images
Summary
The genus Zelus is characterized by its predatory behavior, particularly on agricultural pest insects, making it significant in pest management. It is also culturally tied to Greek mythology through its eponymous daimon, embodying zeal and rivalry.
Physical Characteristics
8-25 mm in length, most commonly 11-18 mm; body shape and coloration vary among species.
Identification Tips
Identifying Z. renardii, Z. cervicalis, & Z. tetracanthus may be difficult from images alone; careful study of physical characteristics may be necessary.
Habitat
Found in a variety of environments, typically in areas where their prey, such as lepidopteran larvae, are abundant.
Distribution
Primarily distributed in North America, ranging from Canada to northern Mexico; overall, more than 70 species are documented.
Diet
Predominantly insectivorous, with a diet that can include up to 40% lepidopteran larvae, such as the cotton bollworm and tobacco budworm.
Life Cycle
Life cycle details specific to Zelus are not provided, but like many Hemiptera, they undergo incomplete metamorphosis with nymph stages resembling adults.
Reproduction
Detailed reproductive strategies are not provided, but Hemiptera generally reproduce by laying eggs, which hatch into nymphs.
Predators
Predators are not specified; however, they are beneficial predators of agricultural pest insects.
Ecosystem Role
Beneficial predators in agricultural systems like cotton, soybean, and tree fruit crops. They play a role in controlling pest populations.
Economic Impact
Considered beneficial in agricultural settings for their role as predators of crop pests.
Cultural Significance
The name Zelus derives from Greek mythology, representing zeal and rivalry, also associated with various virtues and vices in ancient texts.
Collecting Methods
- Net collection in fields and gardens
- Trapping with sticky surfaces to capture specimens
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Ethanol preservation for further study
Evolution
Subgenus classification has changed, with former subgenera no longer recognized; significant genetic diversity exists as indicated by species number.
Tags
- insect
- predatory
- agriculture
- mythology
- Zelus