When I was out walking yesterday, I saw this intersting looking insect, called Lantern Bug.
The Lantern Bug (Pyrops candelarius), also known as “Lantern Fly” or “Elephant Bug”, is a tropical insect and related to the cicada family. Its contrasting colors earned its name, despite the fact that they do not emit any light at all.
There are about 30 species in Southeast Asia. They are about 1.5-3.0 inches long and have a wingspan of 2 to 2.5 inches wide, depending on the species.
Lantern Bugs are plant eaters. Its big “nose” in fact is an extended mouth, which is used to suck the sap from plants and trees. In Hong Kong, they mainly feed on Longan/ lychee trees, so it is called Longan Bug locally.
Lantern Bug is a very old insect and has been around for more than 300 million years. A famous myth is that persons bitten by Lantern Bug will die instantly unless they have sex within 24 hours. In fact, this bug doesn’t bite and its long mouth is only used to suck sap from trees.
9 comments:
What fantastic looking Bug,great close up images.
Very impressed.
John.
I am very intrigued by lantern bugs, is the first time I ever see an insect like I find beautiful, great shots!
So pleased you commented on my blog, you have a fantastic site shall be putting you on my favourits, now you should use some common sense do all the folks around you know about the biting bug. what a great way to get sex!! excuse me I have just been bitten by the lantern bug please save my life,
ps on the side bar of my blog there are several blogs of mine on different wildlife bugs , dragons, birds Etc. enjoy.
What an interesting bug. Any chance of sending one to me and I will get it to bite the wife.
Sam
On its way, Sam!
Very unique and interesting bug! Great info with those nice images. Great blog to ;)
This bug is amazing! Have never seen it before. Fantastic shots and wonderful blog.
precioso y extraño insecto
Stunning bug, great photographs. Will post on FB wall :).
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