Milkweed Assassin Bug
MODERATEZelus longipes
Overview
Spotted on wall just outside exit to gift shop for Space Shuttle Atlantis exihibit.exhibit. Was approximately a half inch long; paper in 3rd picture is a standard 8.5x11" sheet, provided for scale.
- Type
- Insect
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Targeted Insecticide Application
Apply appropriate insecticide following label directions. Timing is critical — treat during the vulnerable larval or adult emergence stage for maximum effectiveness.
Biological Control Agents
Introduce or encourage natural predators and parasitoids. Options include releasing predatory beetles, parasitic wasps, or applying Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar pests.
Infested Material Removal
Prune and destroy infested branches and plant material. Remove fallen debris that may harbor eggs or larvae. Dispose of material away from healthy trees.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Milkweed Assassin Bug. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Milkweed Assassin Bug?
Spotted on wall just outside exit to gift shop for Space Shuttle Atlantis exihibit.exhibit. Was approximately a half inch long; paper in 3rd picture is a standard 8.5x11" sheet, provided for scale.
What are the symptoms of Milkweed Assassin Bug?
Where is Milkweed Assassin Bug currently found?
Milkweed Assassin Bug is currently active in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, South Carolina. It has been reported in 6 total states across the United States.
How do I treat Milkweed Assassin Bug?
Treatment options for Milkweed Assassin Bug include: Targeted Insecticide Application, Biological Control Agents, Infested Material Removal. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.