The Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus) is an intriguing insect commonly found on milkweed plants, with striking orange and black markings that make it easily recognizable. The adult bugs are around ¾ inch long, featuring a distinctive black band across their back and preferring to feed on milkweed, particularly the seeds source.
Although Large Milkweed Bugs are not the only insects that rely on milkweed plants, they have a special relationship with this plant. These bugs are known to travel south for the winter source, highlighting their intriguing life cycle and adaptability. Stay tuned to learn more about this fascinating species as we delve deeper into their characteristics, life stages, and benefits or drawbacks to their host plants.
Large Milkweed Bug Basics
Scientific Name and Classification
The large milkweed bug is an insect belonging to the Hemiptera order and the Lygaeidae family. Its scientific name is Oncopeltus fasciatus.
Physical Description and Coloration
The large milkweed bug is known for its bold coloration and striking appearance. Some key features include:
- Reddish-orange body
- Black band across its back
- Black spots, patches, and antennae
Adults measure approximately ¾” long. The nymphs and adults of this true bug species have similar coloration but with different patterns.
Geographical Distribution
Large milkweed bugs can be found in various regions across North America. They are known to feed on milkweed plants, particularly the seeds, making them commonly found clustering on the plants’ seed pods1. The large milkweed bug, like other milkweed feeders, travels south for the winter.
The Milkweed Plant Connection
Plant Species and Importance
Milkweed plants, belonging to the genus Asclepias, are essential for the survival of several insect species. Some common species include Asclepias syriaca and swamp milkweed. Milkweed provides:
- Leaves and stems: Nutritious food source for caterpillars
- Sap: Contains toxins acting as a defense mechanism for insects feeding on the plants
- Seeds: Rich food source for several species of insects
Milkweed plants hold importance for their role in supporting ecosystem biodiversity.
Relation to Monarch Butterflies
Milkweed plants have a special connection with monarch butterflies. Monarch caterpillars rely on milkweed leaves as their primary food source. As they grow, they ingest the sap, which contains alkaloid toxins. These toxins provide the caterpillars and adult butterflies with a defense mechanism against predators, as they become toxic to consume.
Comparison of Monarch Caterpillars and Large Milkweed Bugs
| Monarch Caterpillars | Large Milkweed Bugs | |
|---|---|---|
| Diet | Milkweed leaves | Milkweed seeds, nectar |
| Habitat | Found on milkweed plants | Found on milkweed plants, especially pods |
| Toxins | Accumulate toxins by ingesting milkweed sap | Accumulate toxins by feeding on milkweed seeds |
As monarch caterpillars and large milkweed bugs both rely on milkweed plants as a food source, their fates are intertwined. Preserving and protecting milkweed plants is vital for sustaining the populations of these species and maintaining their role in the ecosystem.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Eggs and Clutch Size
Female Large Milkweed Bugs lay 25 to 35 eggs per day in small clusters1. The eggs are:
- Light yellow initially
- Turn reddish before hatching
Nymphs and Juveniles
Nymphs undergo five instars before reaching adulthood2. Key features of nymphs:
- They have wing pads, but not fully functional wings
- Resemble adults in color and pattern but smaller
Adults and Mating
Adults are reddish-orange with a black band and distinct patterns on their wings3. Males and females can be distinguished by their:
- Abdomen shape: Males have pointed abdomens, females have rounded ones4
- Size: Males are often slightly smaller than females
Large Milkweed Bugs exhibit incomplete metamorphosis5.
Seasonal Changes and Overwintering
These bugs overwinter as adults6. Key points about seasonal changes and overwintering:
- They migrate to warmer climates during winter
- They return to their original habitats when the weather starts warming up
| Nymphs | Adults | |
|---|---|---|
| Wings | Have wing pads, not fully functioning | Fully functional wings |
| Overwintering | Do not overwinter | Overwinter as adults6 |
| Reproduction7 | Cannot reproduce | Capable of reproduction |
Diet and Feeding
Herbivorous Diet
Large milkweed bugs (Oncopeltus fasciatus) have a specific diet focused on milkweed plants. They feed on various parts of the plant, mainly the seeds. These insects share the milkweed with other species such as monarch butterflies and milkweed tussock moths.
- Large milkweed bugs: Seed pods
- Monarch butterflies: Milkweed leaves
- Milkweed tussock moths: Milkweed leaves
Proboscis and Feeding Habits
These bugs have a unique mouthpart called a proboscis. They use it to pierce plant tissues and extract juices. Large milkweed bugs typically feed in groups, making them conspicuous to predators. Despite their bold appearance, they cause minimal harm to milkweed plants.
| Feeding Features | Large Milkweed Bug |
|---|---|
| Mouthpart | Proboscis |
| Preferred plant part | Seed pods |
| Feeding in groups | Yes |
| Harm to milkweed | Minimal |
Predators and Defense Mechanisms
Toxic Compounds and Aposematism
The Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus) acquires toxic compounds from its primary food source, the milkweed plant. These compounds, called cardenolides, provide them with a defense mechanism against predators1. Their bright orange and black coloration serves as a warning sign, known as aposematism, to discourage potential predators from attacking them.
Common Predators of Milkweed Bugs
Despite their toxic defenses, some predators have adapted to consuming milkweed bugs, such as:
- Lady beetles
- Spiders
- Assassin bugs
- Praying mantises
While these predators do consume milkweed bugs, the overall population remains stable due to their effective aposematism and toxic compounds acquired from the milkweed plant2.
Comparison Table for Defense Mechanisms
| Defense Mechanism | Example | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Toxic Compounds | Cardenolides | High |
| Aposematism (Coloration) | Orange and black colors | High |
- Toxic compounds: Acquired from milkweed plants, beneficial for deterring predators.
- Aposematism: Bold orange and black coloration serves as a warning sign to potential predators.
Large Milkweed Bug Interactions
Gardeners and Pest Control
Large milkweed bugs (Oncopeltus fasciatus) can be commonly found on milkweed plants, especially on the seed pods. These bugs feed on milkweed seeds, which may lead some gardeners to view them as pests in their gardens. However, they rarely cause significant damage to milkweed plants. Instead, consider these practices to control their population:
- Remove leaf litter
- Regularly check for eggs and nymphs
- Avoid using pesticide, which can harm beneficial species like monarch caterpillars
Impact on Ecosystem
In the ecosystem, large milkweed bugs have an important role:
- They help control the spread of milkweed
- Serve as a food source for birds and other insects
- Coexist with other milkweed feeders, like monarch caterpillars and aphids
Milkweed itself is important for pollinators, providing nectar and habitat.
Invasive Species
Large milkweed bugs are native to North America and are not considered invasive. They are most often found on milkweed along roadsides and in gardens. In comparison, small milkweed bugs(Lygaeus kalmii) have a red X-shape on their back and are also native to North America.
| Species | Pattern on Back | Native/Invasive |
|---|---|---|
| Large Milkweed Bug | Black band with orange triangles | Native |
| Small Milkweed Bug | Red X-shape | Native |
In summary, large milkweed bugs are beneficial insects that help control milkweed populations and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Small Milkweed Bug Comparison
Differences in Appearance
- Small milkweed bug (Lygaeus kalmii): Grows up to ½ inch long, black with a large red X-shape on the back, white margins on the wings, and sometimes small white spots in the middle of the wings. There is a red band on the pronotum1.
- Large milkweed bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus): Measures about ¾ inch long, orange to reddish-orange, with a black band across their back2.
Habitats and Distribution
Both small and large milkweed bugs are true bugs that feed mainly on common milkweed plants. They share similar habitats and can be found on milkweed plants throughout North America12. While they both feed on milkweed, their distribution and behaviors may vary slightly due to their size and specific preferences.
| Feature | Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii) | Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Up to ½ inch long | About ¾ inch long |
| Color | Black with red X-shape | Orange to reddish-orange |
| Habitat | Common milkweed plants | Common milkweed plants |
| Distribution | Throughout North America | Throughout North America |
Other Milkweed Inhabitants
Milkweed Beetles
Milkweed beetles are common inhabitants of milkweed plants. One example is the red milkweed beetle (Tetraopes tetraophthalmus) which is frequently found in Wisconsin source. Another example is the swamp milkweed leaf beetle. These beetles are identified by their segmented antennae and distinct coloration. They feed on milkweed leaves and can cause damage to the plants.
Aphids and Their Natural Enemies
Milkweed plants often attract oleander aphids. These small insects can infest the plants and cause damage by feeding on plant sap. However, milkweed plants benefit from the presence of certain beneficial insects that can help control aphid infestations. Examples of these beneficial insects include:
- Ladybugs
- Green lacewings
- Parasitic wasps
These insects feed on oleander aphids and can keep their populations under control, helping to protect milkweed plants from damage.
Assassin Bugs
Assassin bugs, specifically milkweed assassin bugs, are also found on milkweed plants. These insects are characterized by their:
- Elongated shape
- Curved, sharp mouthparts
- Pronotum (a shield-like structure behind their head)
Assassin bugs are considered beneficial insects because they feed on a variety of pests, including slugs, snails, mites, and other insects. They undergo simple metamorphosis, meaning that their juveniles look similar to adults, just smaller and without wings. A new generation of milkweed assassin bugs can help control pest populations on milkweed plants and contribute to a healthier ecosystem.
Footnotes
- Good Growing ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
- Milkweed Bugs, Large and Small (Family Lygaedidae) ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
- Large Milkweed Bug | Missouri Department of Conservation ↩
- More than monarchs – What are those bugs on my milkweed? ↩
- Milkweed Bugs, Large and Small (Family Lygaedidae) ↩
- Common Milkweed Insects – Wisconsin Horticulture ↩ ↩2
- Milkweed Bug | NC State Extension Publications ↩
40 Comments. Leave new
We have had milkweed bugs on our oleanders for years in the high desert in Southern California.
Since oleander has a milky sap, this makes perfect sense.
This is a nymph of Zelus longipes, the milkweed assassin bug.
Hi, I have lots of these bugs in Melbourne , Australia however I dont have milkweed plant, however they are feeding from the juices of our fruit tees and vegetables, leaving them all shriveled up . They seem to multiply alot each year. What is the best way to kill them all? I been stepping on them and a few minutes later another one is feeding on the one that I had killed.
We do not provide extermination advice.
Found a lot of them today on our oleanders in Cave Creek AZ (Sonoran Desert,just north of Phoenix metro area).
Wonder if they are harmful to the plant–so far ours look OK?
Caroline
Found a lot of them today on our oleanders in Cave Creek AZ (Sonoran Desert,just north of Phoenix metro area).
Wonder if they are harmful to the plant–so far ours look OK?
Caroline
They feed on the juices found in the seeds and seed pods, so they will not harm the parent plant. They will have a negative impact on the production of viable seeds, but that is not an issue with garden oleander.
Over the last week or so I’ve been uncovering milkweed type bugs scurring around in the rocks under my oleander trees in Tucson Arizona. I wasnt sure if I needed to attempt to extinguish them or not since last year I did get rid of aphids all over the same oleander trees. Judging by other comments, I will leave them be for now and let nature take its course.
Unlike Aphids, Milkweed Bugs will not harm your oleander plants.
What do these milkweed insects do and what purpose do they serve??
According to BugGuide. they feed on: “Seeds of milkweed plants. They can be reared and fed other seeds such as sunflower, watermelon, cashew, etc.” The purpose they serve is to be part of the intricate web of life on our planet.
we have the same bugs in our garden. Are they harmful to plants??
Milkweed Bugs are considered a benign species.
Soooo, do they bite?
While we concede that it is possible they might bite, we have never heard of a single instance where a person was bitten by a Small Milkweed Bug.
I live in southeast FL and have dozens of milkweed bugs infesting my Oleander shrubs. They definitely eat off the pods but are also eating the leaves, leaving my Oleander sparse. Any advice on how to rid my Oleander of the milkweed bug??
We do not provide extermination advice. Milkweed Bugs suck the fluids from plants. They do not chew on leaves.
I have found a similar looking bug in Albany, congregating on a Lavender bush. I decided it was a False Milkweed Bug (which made sense since there was no milkweed where the bug was). The two species seem indistinguishable! A mass of the bugs on a sunny day June 2016
I just found a huge cluster of these milkweed bugs on my Oleanders. I saw a few last year too. My plants are happy, healthy and very pretty.
Since they mainly feed on the seeds, they do not damage the plants.
I live in Mesa, Az and my Oleanders are covered with these bugs. I have also found that something has been eating on the leaves of my vegetable plants. These are the only bugs I have seen around them. Could they be eating the leaves of my vegetables?
Large Milkweed Bugs have mouths designed to pierce and suck fluids. If your vegetables are showing signs of being chewed, you have a different culprit.
My oleander is usually beautiful, however, just recently I have noticed it is not flowering and looks very sad. Upon close inspection, I noticed there are hundreds and hundreds of orange bugs that look exactly like the milk weed bug. I am at a loss as what to do, because I hate killing anything, however, I think I’m going to have to do something, because my tree Oleander is very sick and sad looking:-(
Same thing here. I’m in Phoenix. Where are you? Literally hundreds!!
I just discovered that my oleander bush is infected with the large milkweed bug. I live in Central Florida. Are they damaging to the bush? They’re very pretty and I don’t want to do anything to harm them if they aren’t.
They will not harm the plant, but they do affect seed production, which we doubt is a concern for your garden.
Oncopeltus fasciatus is the large milkweed bug, not the netting beetle
Oops. thanks for the correction. Guess at some point, we were on auto-pilot and stopped reading what we were writing.
I’m in South Carolina and just planted 5 oleander plants. I have never seen a milk weed bug until now. There are lots of them on my plants.
That sucks, Oleanders are amazing, good luck with finding a treatment to get rid of them:-(
I have them on my oleander in NW Florida Panhandle. They don’t appear to be doing any damage but my plants have not flowered since the end of June. It is now mid-September. Not sure if there’s any relationship
Would it be possible to provide me with an online, extension type source that confirms that the…
“Adults (small milkweed bugs) suck nectar from flowers of various herbaceous plants, and also feed on milkweed seeds(?). Also reported to be scavengers and predators, especially in spring when milkweed seeds are scarce. They have been reported feeding on honey bees, monarch caterpillars and pupae, and dogbane beetles, among others.” I need a research based source> Your help is appreciated!
Would it be possible to provide me with an online, extension type source that confirms that the…
“Adults (small milkweed bugs) suck nectar from flowers of various herbaceous plants, and also feed on milkweed seeds(?). Also reported to be scavengers and predators, especially in spring when milkweed seeds are scarce. They have been reported feeding on honey bees, monarch caterpillars and pupae, and dogbane beetles, among others.” I need a research based source> Your help is appreciated!
The BugGuide link is in our posting, but the Richard B. Boot research paper entitled The Life of a California population facultative Milkweed Bug Lygaeus kalmii is here.
I don’t agree. Read that https://www.whatsthatbug.com/2014/12/23/introduced-false-wolf-spider/
Do these pose a threat to plants? For example, do they eat roots, new leaves? Do they bite people? Are they poisonous to pets who might be silly enough to eat one? This is the first time I have seen SO MANY in our yard (fake grass, rocks,-typical Las Vegas yard)
Milkweed bugs have infested and are sucking the juice out of my Milkweed plants. They are not harmless. I am not eradicating but are killing hundreds of them every day. NE Florida
Is this bug poisonous or not?
hello, i have recently purchased a large habitat fit for all sorts of bugs. i had some friends pick out some bugs that were easy to find and place them in a cage. we have put putting plants in their cage however, they are slowly dying. and they won’t reproduce? we don’t really understand what happening. please explain !
please, and thank you , reagan sims😃