North American wheel bugs are highly regarded by organic gardeners because they consume a variety of insects and their presence indicates a healthy, pesticide-free ecosystem.

Wheel bugs are easily identified by the coglike “wheel” on their backs. Like most true bugs, this species has membranous wings that fold flat along the back when at rest (creating an X pattern on the back), …

Mar 21, 2025 · The Wheel Bug is the only member of the Arilus genus in North America, whose most notable feature is the large notched “wheel” crest on the pronotal segment of the thorax.

Jan 31, 2025 · These small red and black larvae molt many times before growing to adult size and developing the 'wheel' on their backs. The fang is present even at this early stage of life. The Wheel …

The wheel bug is a highly effective ambush predator and is considered a beneficial insect within its ecosystem. It feeds exclusively on other insects, making it a natural control agent for many common …

Arilus cristatus also carries the common name of ‘wheel bug’ due to the distinctive, serrated crest on its pronotum that in profile resembles a portion of a wheel or gear. No other insect in the United States …

Wheel bug, Arilus cristatus (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), preying on a squash bug. Photo by Drees. Description: Adults are up to 1-1/4 inch long, dark brown insects with a prominent spiny ridge …

Sep 29, 2024 · An online resource devoted to North American insects, spiders and their kin, offering identification, images, and information.

Oct 28, 2024 · Wheel bugs are beneficial in the garden, but they deliver a painful bite when disturbed by humans. What Is a Wheel Bug? A wheel bug (Arilus cristatus) is a fairly large member (up to 1.5 …

Sep 29, 2021 · The wheel bug (Arilus cristatus) is one of the largest members of the family of insects known as assassin bugs (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Most members of Reduviidae are predacious on …