Assassin Bug (Sirthenia carinata)
Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Assassin Bug.
Updated: 6/25/2018; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
Assassin Bug
This long and lean Assassin Bug is an adept predator of insects thanks to stealth and a stiletto.
The black and orange colors on Sirthenia carinata serve as a warning to approach with caution, if at all. Like other members of the Assassin Bug family, this species has a long fang at the front of the face. It is used to stab insects to death so they can then be devoured. Sometimes, the fang is used in defense when under threat, like from a careless human handler, delivering a painful wound. Juveniles are somewhat different in appearance: more red overall with black dashes on their abdomen. They molt as they grow and develop, changing shape and color. Adults are black with orange color at the more narrow center, or middle part, of the insect. The orange-brown legs are thick and strong. The black head sports an orange dagger-like fang, folded down until ready for use.
Thanks to a varied diet of insects, this kind of bug is a good one to have around in a garden or farm. It will help eliminate pests and control the population sizes of other larval and adult insects that tend to feed on fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
