Various Bugs (Various families)

At this page we will deal with some bugs we haven't dealt with before. They belong to various families. Some of these are represented in our region by few species only, others are rarely seen in gardens. Assassin Bugs differ from shield bugs by a longer and more slender body, usually long, thin antennae. Assassin Bugs actually belong to two families: the Damsel Bugs (Nabidae) and the Kissing Bugs (Reduviidae). Another well known family is that of the Water Striders. Actually it is represented by various species in our parts, but these are extremely difficult to tell apart. Seed Bugs are also known as Ground Bugs. Usually they are dark. Most are small bugs, looking much like Plant Bugs. Often you can tell the difference by looking at the antennae: the Seed Bugs have antennae looking like those of the Shield Bugs. Those of the Plant Bugs are usually long, very thin and often one part is much longer than the others. Another difference between the two families is that Seed Bugs have ocelli (small simplified eyes on top of the head), Plant Bugs don't. The odd family of Lace Bugs is comprised of among others a number of species similar to leaded windows. The Scentless Plant Bugs have a transparent section (often referred to as 'windows) in their upper shields.