5 Astonishing True Bugs

We sincerely hope that you enjoy this article about 5 Astonishing True Bugs. Many of these amazing insects spend their lives hidden away from the world, where they can’t be appreciated. Others, though, seem to be everywhere at once. Regardless of which of these fascinates you more, though, all of them have their role to play in their respective ecosystems Obviously, these are only the tiniest handful of their numbers, but we hope these 5 Astonishing True Bugs awaken in you a desire to learn more.

Wheel Bug

Wheel Bug Facts

• Leading off this article about 5 Astounding True Bugs comes the ferocious looking species known as the Wheel Bug.
• Perhaps most notably, the attention-grabbing term for this creature remains quite unique. It also serves as the accepted common name of a particularly distinctive member of a scientific classification Family known as Assassin Bugs.
• Although most people refer to all insects as bugs, only species placed within the scientific Order of Hemiptera represent true bugs. Furthermore, this specific species actually ranks as one of the largest of the known true bugs in its habitat range.
• In addition, it actually remains extremely common and numerous in the areas it inhabits. However, despite this fact, the great majority of people never see the creature, or even know of its existence. This occurs due to a combination of two factors.
• Firstly, this remarkable creature possesses a very shy temperament, regardless of its appearance. Secondly, it also ranks as a master of camouflage. However, those who do know of its presence quite often actually welcome its presence.
• This fact, though surprising to some people, holds true because it feeds as a voracious predator of many species considered damaging pests by farmers and gardeners. In fact, its favorite prey includes Japanese Beetles and caterpillars.
• As a result of its dietary habits, this impressive invertebrate remains considered as highly beneficial, and welcomed, by some. Thankfully, therefore, the fascinating Wheel Bug appears to be maintaining a significant and stable population.
• As a result of this fact, the IUCN presently has no listing for it on the Red List of Threatened Species Nonetheless, it may be considered to be at potential risk. Like other species, its main threat most likely consists of the danger posed by climate change.

Wheel Bug Physical Description

Without doubt, the sincerely amazing species known as the Wheel Bug possesses a most distinctive physical appearance. This fact alone gives it a certain impressive status. It makes this unique work of Nature stand out from its many related species.

However, this remarkable invertebrate also fully merits attention and appreciation for yet another reason. That occurs due to its sheer physical size. That holds true because it forms one of the largest terrestrial bugs in its endemic range.

But, this incredible species does display a relatively slight degree of the physiological trait of sexual dimorphism. Further, in the case of this particular arthropod, this manifests itself in the fact that males attain a slightly larger size than females.

Overall, though, the great majority of mature adults of this truly astounding invertebrate all remain relatively small, at least in relation to other forms of life. To be more precise, individuals typically attain a total body length measuring about 1.5 in (3.8 cm).

Yet the most easily recognized feature of the Wheel Bug remains the cog-shaped structure on its pronotal chitin. The precise function of this feature remains a mystery. That’s despite its being a subject of some investigation by researchers.

In addition, its highly notable proboscis grows highly elongated and folds under when not in use. The wings also stay small, making individuals comparatively poor fliers. The coloring also seems to be a random combination of gray, brown, and black.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hemiptera
• Family: Reduviidae
• Genus: Arilus
• Species: A. cristatus

Wheel Bug Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Most unfortunately for those who appreciate Nature, the quite impressive Wheel Bug inhabits a limited, and highly broken, habitat range. That holds true due to the still unexplained fact that it only appears in three restricted, and scattered, regions of the world.

First of all, the greatest majority of its population appears in the eastern regions of the United States, in North America. However, the fabulous arthropod also appears in scattered populations in Mexico, and the country of Guatemala, in Central America.

But, in all regions it appears in, the remarkable invertebrate has very specific needs. In point of fact, it only lives in areas with a very specific habitat. That’s because it only appears to live on certain fruit trees, locust trees, sunflowers, cotton, and goldenrod.   

Further, in terms of temperament, this creature remains quite shy and mild mannered. However, if disturbed, the Wheel Bug nonetheless remains capable of delivering a very painful bite to any human that disturbs it, unintentionally or not.

Although it has no toxins, the feeding enzymes injected during the biting process have comparatively strong and long-lasting effects. In point of fact, such bites frequently require several months to heal, and sometimes leave behind an unsightly scar.

Magicicada

Magicicada Facts

• Our next selection for inclusion in this compendium of 5 Astonishing True Bugs is the marvel of nature known as the Magicicada.
• Most notably, the term actually refers to either of two separate but closely related varieties of periodical cicadas. In a truly extraordinary adaptation of Nature, the two members of this genus evolved an astounding instinctive trait.
• That holds true due to the unbelievable fact that these actually represent 13 and 17-year cycle periodical cicadas. Furthermore, the insects possess yet another remarkable behavioral pattern. In fact, they spend most of their lives underground.
• There, feeds on the fluids from the roots of deciduous trees native to the part of the world they inhabit. After either of the two time periods, the mature nymphs emerge at random locations. This action occurs in tandem with others, in incredible numbers.
• After such an extended developmental phase, the next chapter of the lives of these invertebrates seems quite brief in comparison. To be precise, the adult specimens of the amazing invertebrate remain active for only about 4-6 weeks.
• In addition, the cycle of life of the Magicicada actually becomes complete within two months of the original emergence. By that time the eggs have been laid and the adult cicadas vanish beneath the surface, to begin the cycle again. 

Magicicada Physical Description

To begin with, both of the known species of the extraordinary Magicicada display almost the exact same physical appearance. Part of this extremely distinctive look is quite readily apparent to the observer. This remains the startling red eyes possessed by the creatures.

This display, consequently, starkly contrasts with that of the completely black thorax. Further, the wings of both forms of the awesome Magicicada appear translucent, in sharp contrast. These also display bright orange colored veins.

Furthermore, the underside of the abdomen also presents either black, orange, or striped with orange and black. This pattern holds for the great majority of specimens. Which pattern individuals display also depends on the individual species of this insect.

The adults attain an impressive size. These average about 0.9-1.3 in (2.4-3.3 cm) in length. This makes them slightly smaller than the annual cicada species living in the same regions. The species also display sexual dimorphism. Mature females are slightly larger than males.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hemiptera
• Family: Cicadidae
• Genus: Magicicada

Magicicada Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Quite unfortunately for those who appreciate the beauty of Nature, both forms of the Magicicada inhabit a restricted portion of the globe. This holds true because of the fact that this genus only inhabits a small, and concentrated, section of North America.

Even more precisely, though, these incredible insects only appear across areas of the eastern, upper mid-western, and Great Plains states within the United States. Within this region of the country, however, it inhabits virtually all types of habitats.

This occurs because nymphs spend nearly their entire lives underground. That’s true regardless of which variety the individual forms a member of. The nymphs also undergo a total of 5 distinct developmental stages in their lives beneath the surface.

The difference in the two different life cycles is the time it takes the second stage to mature. While underground, the nymphs move ever deeper below ground, to feed on larger roots. However, these do eventually emerge, at the end of their respective cycles.

Furthermore, the nymphs also typically emerge at a very specific time. This consists of a spring evening. In most years, this will be in either late April or early May in far southern states. In the far northern states, it usually happens in late May or early June.

Emerging nymphs climb to a suitable place on the nearby vegetation to complete their transformation. The astonishing numbers of Magicicada will then molt one final time, and then spend about six days in the leaves waiting for the exoskeletons to finish hardening.

The short adult life cycle of the creatures has one purpose. That’s to reproduce, during which time they sing in a chorus that can be nearly deafening. In point of fact, these often number more than 1.5 million individuals per acre (0.4 hectares).  

Picasso Bug

Picasso Bug Facts

• Placing third among our choices for inclusion within this compendium of 5 Astonishing True Bugs, the Picasso Bug does so only due to random selection.
• First of all, the highly descriptive term perfectly serves as one of the common names of a visually stunning variety of arthropod. However, this marvelous insect also goes by the alternate common name of the Zulu Hud Bug.
• But most professional researchers know the invertebrate best by the quite difficult to pronounce scientific name of Sphaerocoris annulus. However, regardless of the term one uses to refer to it, this marvel of Nature truly catches the eye.
• Further, it also constitutes one of the roughly 450 familiar species comprising a unique group of insects generally known as shield-backed bugs. Though sometimes considered to resemble a variety of beetle, it actually represents a true bug.
• Quite fortunately, for the moment, its numbers appear to be sufficient and stable. This fortunate fact extends throughout the entirety of its natural range. Due to this, the IUCN does not yet list the animal on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• Nonetheless, the lovely arthropod must be considered to be at some risk. Further, this sad situation holds true for several reasons. However, the two greatest threats to its existence likely consist of habitat loss and climate change.

Picasso Bug Physical Description

Although the truly gorgeous Picasso Bug attains a roughly average size for an arthropod of its kind, it nonetheless remains a physically small insect. However, its numerous other attributes more than make up for any perceived lack of physical size.

In this manner, the magnificent work of Nature aptly demonstrates the principal that size remains completely  irrelevant to beauty. In addition, this marvelous insect also sets itself apart from the vast majority of related creatures for another reason.

That holds true due to the fact that, unlike a great many insects, the species does not display any degree of sexual dimorphism. This insect with the dazzling pattern also differs from beetles by its extended thorax. This forms a shield over its abdomen and wings.

The stunning Picasso Bug also possesses a distinctive appearance. Each specimen typically attains a generally oval shape. Furthermore, individuals only average about 0.25 in (6.3 mm) in body length. Thus, despite its artistic appearance, few people ever see it.

Further enhancing its wondrous appearance, the background color typically remains green. Nonetheless, variations of this pattern exist. However, while the exact placement and dimensions of the spots vary, the insect always displays eleven of them.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hemiptera
• Family: Scutelleridae
• Genus: Sphaerocoris
• Species: S. annulus

Picasso Bug Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The truly lovely Picasso Bug evolved as native to a moderately large portion of the world. To be more precise, the stunning invertebrate mainly appears in parts of the continent of Africa. Further, this includes parts of South Africa, Ethiopia, and Cameroon.

Yet, these constitute only a few of the countries in which it can be found. This petite but mesmerizing insect also lives in an environment that might surprise many people. It typically inhabits arid regions, such as those found in the sub-Saharan portions of its range.

In addition, and quite astonishingly to many, it also remains close relatives of the stink bug. As a result, it therefore remains capable of emitting a noxious odor if disturbed. However, this has no known harmful effects, beyond a temporary inconvenience.

This invertebrate also feeds entirely as a herbivore, much like its many related species. In its particular case, though, the beautifully colored insect feeds primarily upon the juices of a variety of plants. Quite unfortunately, these include some commercial crops. 

Although not as brightly hued as some related species, the Picasso Bug nevertheless still stands out. That holds true due to the very characteristic for which it earns it’s best known. In fact, it remains famous for the elaborate nature of its distinctive markings.

Those have led people to make various allusions and comments. These often state that the bugs appear to have been painted by the great artist Picasso, himself. Quite understandably, and wholly deservedly, this serves as the source of its common name.

Oak Treehopper

Oak Treehopper Facts

• Next up out of these 5 Astonishing True Bugs comes the distinctly hued species known as the Oak Treehopper.
• The single term actually represents the accepted common name of either of two separate, specific varieties of Treehopper. The complex scientific names of these two species are Platycotis vittata and Platycotis quadrivittata. 
• Regardless of which particular term one uses to refer to them, these remain fascinating invertebrates. Furthermore, despite the specific name, both of these species appear to inhabit both evergreen and deciduous oak trees with equal enthusiasm.
• Furthermore, each of the two varieties of Oak Treehopper also shares a remarkable, and sometimes destructive, behavior. That’s a tendency to congregate in large numbers. Understandably, this patterns also holds especially true during mating season.
• Also, at times, their numbers on a given tree can represent a potential danger for the tree itself. However, regardless of the numbers involved, actual physical damage caused by the Oak Treehopper to the trees remains extremely rare.
• Any physical damage inflicted upon a tree by the presence of one or both of the species generally remains limited to minor scarring on the smaller limbs. Quite fortunately, for the moment, neither of these creatures appears on the IUCN Red List.
• Nonetheless, it must be considered that the populations of both remain at some risk. This further remains the case due to several different threats. While the factors vary, this primarily holds true due to the ongoing effects of climate change.

Oak Treehopper Physical Description

It bears mentioning that, while not a large insect, both forms of the Oak Treehopper nonetheless rank as relatively large compared to related creatures. Furthermore, on average, these arthropods possess bodies having a proportionately heavier body.

These also most commonly display a more triangular body than similar species. In addition, both forms attain approximately the same general physical shape. This partially consists of the fact that an average length measures roughly 0.35 in (9 mm).

That, however, does not include any horn that may be present. Quite remarkably, this occurs due to the fact that some individuals develop one and some do not. Also, the intermittent horn itself, when present, adds an extra 0.16 in (4 mm) to the overall length.

Physical appearances vary among individuals of the Oak Treehopper. The great majority of specimens observed display a variety of stripes. But, both the colors of these stripes, as well as their placement and width also vary greatly between individual specimens.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hemiptera
• Family: Membracidae
• Genus: Platycotis

Oak Treehopper Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Surprisingly, both forms of the visually lovely Oak Treehopper evolved as endemic to a relatively broad section of the globe. That holds true due to the fact that the majority of individuals of both species occur naturally in a specific section of the Northern Hemisphere.

In point of fact, both species evolved as endemic in an area that extends across much of the continent of  North America. More precisely, though, most of them appear in quite specific portions of both the United States and the country of Mexico.

Nevertheless, scattered, populations also appear as far north as Vancouver Island, Canada, and as far south as Brazil, in South America. But, wherever the fascinating animal appears within this range, it may be found anywhere large groupings of oak trees are present.

Originally, this habitat consisted of the large temperate forests that covered a great portion of the region. Now, however, this zone of habitation has modified somewhat, given human expansion. It now often even includes forests and parks, and even private yards.

Within the United States, the habitat of the Oak Treehopper continues to be primarily restricted to a narrow, U-shaped swathe. This primarily extends through the coastal regions of Oregon, California, Texas, Mississippi, Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, and New Jersey. 

Giant Mesquite Bug

Giant Mesquite Bug Facts

• Our fifth and final entry into this listing of 5 Astounding True Bugs is the marvel of Nature known as the Giant Mesquite Bug.
• Firstly, this is the sincerely astounding, and appropriately named, insect with an impressive resume. It also remains a member of the scientific Order Hemiptera. As such, it constitutes what entomologists generally call a true bug.
• Fortunately for it, the insect appears to still be quite numerous, unlike many related species. Due to this fact, the IUCN currently does not have the Giant Mesquite Bug listed on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• Further, it remains the only member of its genus to be present in the United States. Regrettably, however, it also sometimes constitutes a pest species among local agriculturists. This occurs due to its particular feeding preferences.

Giant Mesquite Bug Physical Description

Most notably, the adults of the Giant Mesquite Bug appear much less colorful than do the nymphs. But, while the young appear far more colorful, the adults, quite obviously, grow much larger in size.

Further, the fully grown individuals attain an average body length of about 1.25 in 3.2 cm). In addition, unlike the young, adults have functional wings. Also, the wings show black, with yellowish veins. Yet the legs and antennae have red and black bands.

Meanwhile, the young nymphs display far brighter patterns. The back generally displays orange-red, with white spots. Additionally, the head is mainly red and black in color. Also, the legs show mainly red,with black at the joints and feet.

Finally, the species does display a degree of sexual dimorphism. But, the manner in which it does this remains uncommon. In this instance, the males have much larger femurs on the rear legs. Truly, it earns its mention as one of our 5 Astonishing True Bugs.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hemiptera
• Family: Coreidae
• Genus: Thasus
• Species: T. neocalifornicus

Giant Mesquite Bug Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

First of all, the dazzling Giant Mesquite Bug inhabits a limited, as well as specific habitat range. That’s because the gorgeous invertebrate only lives in the Sonora Desert, in North America

Specifically, the truly remarkable beauty lives in a region from southwest Arizona to Baja California, in Mexico. However, the greatest concentrations occur in two areas. These consist of the southern tip of Baja, and the Tucson area in Arizona.

Furthermore, both the colorful nymphs and the adults of the species have an extremely specialized diet. As the common name clearly implies, all stages of the insect feed exclusively on the Mesquite tree.

In addition, it feeds on most parts of the host plant. These include the soft leaves, the sap, and seed pods, as well. However, and somewhat surprisingly, despite its voraciousness, it rarely harms the tree itself.

Finally, it has numerous predators. But, the primary one consists of the locally numerous Pallid Bat. For defense, it relies on two tactics. Firstly, adults possess relatively thick armor. Finally, however, the nymphs rely on noxious chemicals to deter predators.

5 Astonishing True Bugs

We sincerely hope that you have greatly enjoyed this article about 5 Astonishing True Bugs. These, of course, represent only a tiny handful of the roughly 80,000 species of invertebrates considered true bugs. But, we think they make a good, if small, cross-section of the Order. But, quite unfortunately, many of these now find themselves in peril, for various reasons. It is up to each of us to do all that we can to protect and preserve these 5 Astonishing True Bugs, and the thousands of others, for posterity.

Check out our other articles on 4 Stupendous Stick Insects, 5 Sublime North American Trees, 4 Geological Wonders of Antarctica, 4 of the Threatened Herbaceous Plants of Asia