Genus Phymata - Jagged Ambush Bugs

Phymata Latreille 1802

Greek phyma 'tumor, swelling'(1)

17 spp. in our area(2)

Scutellum triangular and shorter than pronotum, anterior tarsi small but distinct(2)(3).

much of NA

typically found on flowers in open or semi-open habitats

small insects and other arthropods (Balduf 1943)

"Coupling may involve several males riding around on a single female. Sometimes it allows them to take down larger prey, although coupling individuals have been found each with their own prey as well. Mating occurs with the male mounted on the side of the female" (comment by drswanny).

Eggs -- nymph -- final molt -- adults (coupling) -- adults (mating)

See forum discussion