Milkweed Bug

Milkweed Bug

Large milkweed bug: Oncopeltus fasciatus

  • Habitat: live in fields and meadows that contain plants such as the milkweed
  • Size: 9-18mm
  • Predators/Prey: Milkweed bugs use their mouths to pierce plants (mostly milkweed) and drink the juices.
  • Population: life span 1 month
  • Interesting facts: Because they eat the milkweed plant they contain toxins that can make their predators sick if eaten. Their bright orange coloration also warns predators away.

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Milkweed Bug

This is the original scanning electron microscope (SEM) image before it was colorized.

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