Stenopodainae

Stenopodainae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Stenopodainae: /ˌstɛnəˌpoʊdəˈnaɪ.i/

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

Images

Ctenotrachelus shermani by Jessica. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Oncocephalus geniculatus - inat 395532552 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Oncocephalus nubilus - inat 367068545 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Pnirontis modesta P1330274a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Assassin Bug - Pnirontis modesta, Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area, Aden, Virginia by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Pnirontis modesta P1330267b by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Stenopodainae is a subfamily of assassin bugs known for their cryptic coloration and predatory habits, with a significant number of species found in tropical regions. They are characterized by their distinct morphological features, including the structure of their hemelytra and antennae.

Physical Characteristics

Members of Stenopodainae typically exhibit brownish coloration and have a granulate appearance. They possess prominent mandibular plates, with the first antennal segment strongly developed, while the remaining segments are slender and often folded back under the first. Their hemelytron usually has a large pentagonal or hexagonal cell in the corium.

Identification Tips

The subfamily can be identified by the presence of a quadrate cell in the corium and the second antennal segment being longer than the first. Cryptic coloration may also aid in identification.

Habitat

Stenopodainae are primarily associated with soil or sand habitats, with many species being ground-dwelling. They may also be swept from bushes and low foliage.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution, with numerous species found in North America, especially in the southeastern or south-central regions of the United States. Most described species are found in tropical regions.

Diet

As nocturnal predators, they primarily feed on other insects.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are not extensively documented, but they typically undergo incomplete metamorphosis.

Reproduction

Specific reproductive behaviors are not provided in the text.

Ecosystem Role

Predators that contribute to controlling pest insect populations.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweeping from bushes and low foliage
  • Light trapping

Preservation Methods

  • Simple pinning
  • Ethanol preservation

Tags

  • Stenopodainae
  • Reduviidae
  • assassin bugs
  • insecta
  • hemiptera