Wheel Bug
San Marcos, Hays County, Texas
Arilus cristatus, a beneficial insect that eats harmful insects. The largest of the true bugs they are named for the spiny ridge or crest on the thorax. If present in the garden, the garden is considered to be in good health. However it should be noted they should not be handled. They are capable of a nasty sting when the jab a victim with their proboscis, said to be several times worse than a wasp sting. They also can produce a pungent offending odor.
Wheel Bug
San Marcos, Hays County, Texas
Arilus cristatus, a beneficial insect that eats harmful insects. The largest of the true bugs they are named for the spiny ridge or crest on the thorax. If present in the garden, the garden is considered to be in good health. However it should be noted they should not be handled. They are capable of a nasty sting when the jab a victim with their proboscis, said to be several times worse than a wasp sting. They also can produce a pungent offending odor.