Bug Identifier
Pale Green Assassin Bug
Community identification

Pale Green Assassin Bug

Zelus luridus

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Reduviidae
Size
12 to 18 mm (approx. 0.5 to 0.7 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Deciduous forests, gardens, orchards, and shrubbery across North America.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist predator; feeds on a variety of insects including aphids, beetles, caterpillars, and flies.

Behavior Patterns

They are ambush predators that use 'sticky trap' strategy, secreting a sticky substance on their forelegs to catch prey. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to gardeners and farmers as they provide natural pest control. While not aggressive toward humans, they can deliver a painful bite if handled or provoked.