- Common Name: Euthyrhynchus Bug
- General Category: Beneficial Predator
- Taxonomic Classification: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae
- Scientific Name: Euthyrhynchus floridanus
Description
This very distinctive iridescently colored predator can be easily distinguished from other predatory stink bugs, It is also a generalist predator, meaning it's not a picky eater. Like all true bugs (Hemiptera) these predators have a beak. To feed, they swing their beaks up from under their bodies, sneak up to their prey and jab them with the harpoon-like tips. They inject digestive enzymes through the beak that soon render the prey immobile, after which they suck up the digested insides.
Identification
Review the images for tips on how to identify these predators.Adults
Distinctive iridescent purple-black coloration on legs and bodies, as well as three orange to red spots on the top of the abdomen. The “shoulders” also have spines like spined soldier bugs. Like all predatory stink bugs, Euthyrhynchus bugs have beaks that are at least twice as thick as their antennae (See a comparison).
Nymphs
No wings. Beaks like adults. The overall shape is rounded with a somewhat flattened underside. Distinctive purple-black legs and body with an orange or red area on top of the abdomen.
