Monday, June 15, 2009

Hibiscus Harlequin Bug.



Yes, the term 'bug' IS part of the name. Though many may not realize, bugs are a type of insect -- insects that have tubes instead of mouth parts. So some insects are not bugs. These are in the 'stink bug' category, since they emit a strong scent to repel predators. The bright colors also indicate that they smell / taste bad to potential predators. Because of this, there aren't a lot of predators. Wasps do the most damage to their population by taking eggs.

These bugs live in Hibiscus plants near mangroves forests. As you would guess, they drink nectar from hibiscus flowers. What's particularly unique is there is some level of maternal care -- they will lay eggs in a cluster, and guard the eggs until hatched.

No comments:

Post a Comment