Neotropical Bee Assassin vs Koa Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Neotropical Bee Assassin | Koa Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Apiomerus pictipes | Coleotichus blackburniae |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Reduviidae | Scutelleridae |
| Size | 14-20 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | South America (Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela) | Hawaii |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Vulnerable |
Neotropical Bee Assassin
A stout, colorful assassin bug that specializes in capturing bees and wasps visiting flowers. Its bright red, orange, and black coloring may serve as aposematic warning. It coats its forelegs with plant resins to improve grip when seizing fast-moving prey.
Did You Know?
It has been observed applying resin from specific plant species to its legs in a deliberate, repeated behavior that qualifies as tool use.
Koa Bug
A colorful jewel bug endemic to Hawaii with metallic green, gold, and red coloring. It feeds on koa and other native trees.
Did You Know?
Invasive parasitoid wasps have drastically reduced its numbers across the Hawaiian Islands.