Oncocephalus geniculatus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
Family: Reduviidae
Subfamily: Stenopodainae
Genus: Oncocephalus
Species: geniculatus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oncocephalus geniculatus: //ˌɒŋkoʊˈsɛfələs ˌdʒɛnɪkjʊˈleɪtəs//

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Images

Oncocephalus geniculatus - inat 395532552 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Oncocephalus geniculatus is a species of assassin bug in the family Reduviidae, primarily recognized for its distinct physical characteristics and predatory behavior. It plays an important role in its ecosystem by controlling pest populations and is distributed from Texas to Arizona and Utah.

Physical Characteristics

Approximately 14-15 mm in length. Distinguished by dark patches inside the cells of the hemelytra and a lateral tubercle anterior to the transverse constriction of the pronotum.

Identification Tips

This species can be distinguished from O. nubilus and O. variabilis by its dark patches and specific tubercle location. To separate it from O. apiculatus, one must examine the ratios of the antennal segments.

Habitat

Found in a variety of habitats throughout Central and North America.

Distribution

Native to Central America and North America; specifically reported in the United States from Texas to Arizona and Utah.

Diet

Insects, as it is a member of the assassin bug family Reduviidae, known for being predatory toward other insects.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator, it contributes to the control of pest insect populations.