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feather-legged bug
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feather-legged bug

insect, subfamily Holoptilinae
Also known as: Holoptilinae
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Quick Summary

The feather-legged bug is an insect belonging to the subfamily Holoptilinae, which is part of the assassin bug family (Reduviidae). These insects are characterized by their predatory nature and the use of piercing-sucking mouthparts to liquefy their prey.1

Feather-legged bugs possess a unique adaptation: a specialized outgrowth on their abdomen called a trichome. This trichome releases a secretion that attracts ants. Once the ants are drawn in and paralyzed, the feather-legged bug pierces them with its beak and consumes their body fluids. This behavior has been observed in species like Ptilocerus ochraceus and Ptilocnemus femoralis.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
8 Britannica Sources
  1. assassin bug
  2. heteropteran
  3. heteropteran - Habitats
  4. heteropteran - Wings
  5. feather-legged
  6. mosquito: Top Questions
  7. heteropteran - Beneficial aspects
  8. heteropteran - Food habits

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