toxicity of leaf-footed?

This may seem a bit off topic, but figured someone would know. Is there a toxicity concern in feeding leaf-footed bugs (Leptoglossus occidentalis) to my Bearded Dragon (lizard)? we are having a few warm days so these and the lady bugs (I know they are toxic/irritaing) are showing up in numbers. Darwin would love to try something new, but I always check safety.

thanks!

Contributed by Bonnie Caruthers on 1 November, 2005 - 1:09pm

I'd check with a researcher.

I'd check with a chemical ecologist who works on Leptoglossus, if there is such a person. You might try Cornell University for starters. Tom Eisner has worked with lots of insects to study their defensive chemicals. Do keep in mind that L. occidentalis is a conifer feeder (on the cones), so may be ingesting some terpenes and other chemicals from the tree.

… Eric R. Eaton, 2 November, 2005 - 11:10am

good point

I know of Tom Eisner. Read his book - in fact, posted it here :). I did ask an ento prof. and he thought it would be OK. But your point about the terpenes, etc. is good one. I am guessing that the amount would be minimal and this would not be a steady diet, but not willing to experiment with Darwin's life! There are very sad stories about pet lizards dying after munching on lightning bugs :(

I'll email Tom.

thanks

… Bonnie Caruthers, 2 November, 2005 - 5:53pm

Disclaimer: Dedicated naturalists volunteer their time and resources here to provide this service. We strive to provide accurate information, but we are mostly just amateurs attempting to make sense of a diverse natural world. If you need expert professional advice, contact your local extension office.

Contributors own the copyright to and are solely responsible for contributed content.
Click the contributor's name for licensing and usage information.
Everything else copyright © 2003-2024 Iowa State University, unless otherwise noted.

Bugguide is hosted by:

Printer Friendly Version