Heza similis
This record describes Heza similis (species). Recorded family: Reduviidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Mesopleuron plicate as in genus, though smaller. Anterior pronotal disc armed with moderate-sized, blunt tubercles. Posterior pronotal lobe armed with two long discal spines and two long humeral spines. First connexival segment is armed posterolaterally with a small tubercle.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Reduviidae (Assassin Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Harpactorinae
- Tribe
- Harpactorini
- Genus
- Heza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
In the United States, probably limited to the southwest.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Latin, similis , similar, like, resembling. This descriptor was probably given in comparison to a congeneric species. Part of Stål’s original description is translated: “Very similar to H. macilenta , spines on head and posterior lobe of thorax shorter.”
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Heza similis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Heza similis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by drswanny
Frequently Asked Questions About Heza similis
What is Heza similis?
Heza similis is a species in the family Reduviidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Heza similis?
17-22 mm
How do you identify Heza similis?
Mesopleuron plicate as in genus, though smaller. Anterior pronotal disc armed with moderate-sized, blunt tubercles. Posterior pronotal lobe armed with two long discal spines and two long humeral spines. First connexival segment is armed posterolaterally with a small tubercle.
Where is Heza similis found?
Range: In the United States, probably limited to the southwest.