Nutrition

Arilus cristatus is a predacious insect that preys on a large variety of other insects, such as caterpillars, beetles, aphids and bee's. Since A. cristatus feeds on a wide range of considerably harmful insects, A. cristatus is considered beneficial.

In attacking prey, the Wheel Bug sneaks up slowly on the unwary soon-to-be victim and lunges its front legs to seize and handle the prey. Once they prey is captured between its long legs, the Wheel Bug plunges its needle-like beak into the prey and injects a paralyzing enzyme in which dissolves the insides of the insect so the Wheel Bug can consume its victim.

Continue to the references page