Reduvius
Reduvius
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
- Family: Reduviidae
- Subfamily: Reduviinae
- Genus: Reduvius
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Reduvius: //rɛˈduːvi.ʊs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Reduvius is a large genus of assassin bugs characterized by their predatory nature and varied habitats. One of the notable species is Reduvius personatus, known as the masked hunter.
Physical Characteristics
8-22 mm in size; typically black (R. personatus) or dull reddish-brown (other species); unarmed anterior disc of the pronotum
Identification Tips
Reduvius species can be identified by the shape of the membrane cells and the basal margin of the pronotum.
Habitat
Found in various terrestrial ecosystems including mammal burrows in deserts and logs in rainforests.
Distribution
Found widely across Canada, US, and parts of the southwestern US, including southern California and western Texas.
Diet
Predatory; preys on small arthropods such as woodlice, lacewings, earwigs, bed bugs, and Swallow Bugs.
Ecosystem Role
They serve as predators in their ecosystems, helping control populations of other small arthropods.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse R. personatus with Pseudozelurus due to size and coloration, although they differ in specific morphological traits.
Tags
- Reduvius
- assassin bugs
- predatory insects