Assassin Bug

*Reduviidae*

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+4 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsforestsweedy areasbushy cover

Taxonomic Group

Bug

Order

Hemiptera

Family

Reduviidae

Lifecycle

Assassin bugs undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult). Eggs are laid in clusters and hatch in about 10 days to 2 weeks. The wingless nymphs go through five instars, a process that can take from two to four months, before becoming winged adults. They typically have one to two generations per year.

Overwintering Strategy

Adults or nymphs overwinter in sheltered places like under bark, in leaf litter, or in and around buildings.

Native Range

North and South America

Attracted By

alfalfadaisiesdandelionsdillfennelgoldenrodqueen anne's lacemarigoldstansycarrotsconeflowercoreopsiscup plantyarrowPycnanthemum

Repelled By

N/A

Companion Planting

Planting a diversity of flowering plants, especially those that attract small insects, will help attract and support assassin bugs. They are generalist predators and will help control a wide range of pests in the garden.