Reduviidae
Reduviidae
Reduviidae (pronounced: re-du-vi-i-dae) is a large, cosmopolitan family of predatory insects in the suborder Heteroptera. It is also commonly known as assassin bugs or kissing bugs. The family includes over 7,000 species, making it one of the largest families in the Hemiptera order.
Etymology
The term Reduviidae is derived from the Latin word reduvia, meaning hangnail or remnant. This is likely a reference to the raptorial forelegs of species in this family, which are often compared to the remnants of a meal.
Description
Reduviidae are generally recognized by their elongated head; narrow, curved, and segmented beak; and raptorial forelegs. They range in size from 4 to 40 mm. These insects are known for their predatory behavior, feeding on a variety of other insects and, in some cases, even small vertebrates.
Behavior
Most Reduviidae are terrestrial ambush predators, although some are arboreal. They use their raptorial forelegs to capture prey. The beak is used to pierce the prey and inject salivary fluids that cause the insides of the prey to liquefy. The bug then sucks out the liquefied tissues. Some species are known to transmit diseases to humans.
Related Terms
- Heteroptera: The suborder to which Reduviidae belongs.
- Hemiptera: The order to which Reduviidae belongs.
- Predatory insects: A term referring to insects that prey on other organisms.
- Arboreal: Referring to organisms that live in trees.
- Terrestrial: Referring to organisms that live on land.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Reduviidae
- Wikipedia's article - Reduviidae
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