Reduviidae

Reduviidae is a large, cosmopolitan family of predatory insects in the suborder Heteroptera. It includes assassin bugs (genera include Melanolestes, Pselliopus, Rasahus, Reduvius, Rhinocoris, and Zelus), ambush bugs, wheel bugs, and thread-legged bugs. Most members of this family are known to be beneficial insects, as they feed on other insects, which are pests to humans.

Description

Members of the Reduviidae family are usually recognized by their elongated head; narrow, curved, segmented rostrum; and raptorial forelegs. Adults can range in size from 4 to 40 mm. They are equipped with a 'rostrum' that is designed not for piercing plant tissues but for delivering a lethal saliva that liquefies the insides of the prey, which are then sucked out. The saliva is commonly highly toxic and can cause a very painful bite in humans if handled incautiously.

Behavior

Reduviidae are known for their aggressive behavior and their ability to deliver painful bites. They are also known for their role in controlling pest populations. Some species have been known to stalk their prey in a manner similar to mammalian predators, a behavior unusual in insects.

Taxonomy

The family Reduviidae belongs to the order Hemiptera, the true bugs. It contains more than 7000 species, divided into 25 subfamilies and 900 genera. The family includes the subfamilies Triatominae, which are vectors of Chagas disease, and Holoptilinae, or feather-legged bugs, which are kleptoparasites of spiders.

Medical Importance

Some species of Reduviidae, specifically the subfamily Triatominae, are known to transmit Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. This disease is a major health problem in Central and South America, causing significant morbidity and mortality.

See Also

• Hemiptera
• Chagas disease
• Trypanosoma cruzi

References

Reduviidae Resources
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