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TranslateSpilostethus hospes
Spilostethus hospes (Fabricius, 1794) Commonly known as “Darth Maul Bug”
Body length 10 to 13mm.
Family: Lygaeidae.
Genus: Spilostethus,
Spilostethus hospes common name, derives from Star Wars character, “Darth Maul” who has similar markings. It is also known as the “Milkweed bug” in Australia, because it is commonly seen feeding from Asclepias fascicularis (Narrowleaf Milkweed).
Females seem to be more commonly seen than males, it is believed that only the males succumb and evidently die, due to the endosymbiotic bacterium. Fortunately, females seem to be immune from this virus.
A widespread species, found mostly in the south of Europe. More so into Asia including India, Malaysia and Indonesia. Also, into Australia.
Habitat: Preferring similar climates to Tropical rain forests. Found in forests, meadows, fields and scrub land.
Mainly found in groups, feeding among the flowers of Asclepisa. S. hospes use their sharp proboscis to suck the nutrients from the plant.
Read MoreBody length 10 to 13mm.
Family: Lygaeidae.
Genus: Spilostethus,
Spilostethus hospes common name, derives from Star Wars character, “Darth Maul” who has similar markings. It is also known as the “Milkweed bug” in Australia, because it is commonly seen feeding from Asclepias fascicularis (Narrowleaf Milkweed).
Females seem to be more commonly seen than males, it is believed that only the males succumb and evidently die, due to the endosymbiotic bacterium. Fortunately, females seem to be immune from this virus.
A widespread species, found mostly in the south of Europe. More so into Asia including India, Malaysia and Indonesia. Also, into Australia.
Habitat: Preferring similar climates to Tropical rain forests. Found in forests, meadows, fields and scrub land.
Mainly found in groups, feeding among the flowers of Asclepisa. S. hospes use their sharp proboscis to suck the nutrients from the plant.
