An Assassin Bug A Wheel Bug Nymph | July 19, 2014 |
Until my July 1, 2014, encounter and posting on FB, I had no idea that there was such a thing as an "assassin bug," but apparently assassin bugs include an extensive number of species.
The one I photographed is a wheel bug (Arilus cristatus); more specifically, it's a wheel bug nymph, since only the immatures have the bright red marking. |
The wheel bug nymph would be well suited for either a horror or SF story. Following is a detailed view. |
The side view of the wheel bug nymph is no less "attractive." |
Truly a strange-looking critter!
Photo note: I used the Pentax K20D, with the SMC-A* 200mm macro lens, on July 1, 2014, for these photos. |