What's this little guy?

[Redsonic]

I have seen these insects on my plants from time to time and haven't bothered about them, beyond wondering what they are. In the last few days, I have noticed a lot more of them on my figs. They are about the size of a largish ant, and move a lot like an ant, but have very long antennae.

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Maybe an assassin bug?

[melbrackstone]

You're right, that looks like the nymph of the Bee Killer Assassin Bug... erk!

[Pierre]

Hello Redsonic,

Looks like the immature wheel bug...
Which is beneficial as it eats aphids and other insects....
Nice wiring btw...
Take care and have a lovely Christmas.
Pierre

[Firecat]

Don't let them piece the skin with that needle proboscis.
The pain it excruciating as is the sting of most assassins and soldier beetles.
http://www.qm.qld.gov.au/Find+out+about ... E9TqlwqzXU

Steve

[Redsonic]

Thanks for the replies and the ID. I thought I would post an update on these guys.
Found three of them today feasting on an unfortunate wasp. They let me get a lot closer - probably because they were distracted. You can see the nasty proboscis - I wouldn't want that in my skin!
Will work carefully around my bonsai for the time being....

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[Redsonic]

Just an update on these guys. They are now fully grown, with wings, though a lot less common on my plants.
Impressive, but pretty ugly really! You can still see the really long proboscis and antennae.

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[Redsonic]

And, the circle of life continues. The next generation is born

CommonAssassinBugBabies.jpg

[melbrackstone]

a nest of assassins.