Oplomus
Spinola, 1840
Species Guides
2Oplomus is a of predatory stink bugs in the Pentatomidae, Asopinae, containing approximately nine described . The genus has been studied for potential, particularly Oplomus dichrous as a of agricultural pests. Members are predators with documented preferences for certain prey types.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Oplomus: /ˈɒpləməs/
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Identification
Asopinae stink bugs (predatory stink bugs) can be distinguished from phytophagous Pentatominae by more robust, curved rostra adapted for . Specific identification to within Oplomus requires examination of morphological characters not detailed in available sources; the contains nine described species with varying color patterns and body proportions.
Images
Habitat
Agricultural systems and associated vegetation; at least Oplomus dichrous has been documented in potato fields and surrounding .
Diet
; Oplomus dichrous has been observed to prefer lepidopteran larvae over other prey, though it will consume Colorado potato beetle and larvae when available.
Host Associations
- Leptinotarsa decemlineata - preyColorado potato beetle; consumed but not preferred by Oplomus dichrous
- Lepidoptera larvae - preferred preyPreferred prey of Oplomus dichrous
Behavior
Oplomus dichrous shows prey selectivity, preferring lepidopteran larvae over coleopteran prey. Phenological timing may limit effectiveness as a agent for specific pests.
Ecological Role
in agricultural ; potential agent with limitations due to dietary preferences and phenological mismatches with target pest .
Human Relevance
Studied for potential against agricultural pests, particularly the Colorado potato beetle; effectiveness limited by prey preferences and timing.
Similar Taxa
- Other Asopinae genera (e.g., Podisus, Perillus)All Asopinae share predatory habits and robust rostra; Oplomus distinguished by specific morphological characters and -level classification
- Phytophagous PentatominaeOplomus and other Asopinae have curved, robust rostra for versus straight rostra for plant feeding in phytophagous
More Details
Species diversity
Nine described : O. annotatus, O. catena, O. cruentus, O. dichrous, O. festivus, O. marginalis, O. mundus, O. pulchriventris, O. salamandra
Research limitations
Most detailed biological information available only for Oplomus dichrous; other lack published studies on and