The Florida leaf-footed bug (Acanthocephala femorata) is a species of insect.  The genus name Acanthocephala means "spiny head" and comes from the pointed tylus at the tip of the head. Acanthocephala femorata is found in the continental United States and Mexico.This insect is considered a pest, eating and causing damage to citrus and roses. The lower rear legs are wider than the upper legs, with serrations. This is especially pronounced in the male. It has long, slim, curving antennae with distinctive orange tips. The body is reddish brown to nearly black.
They have a number of predators and therefore biological control is generally enough to prevent their populations from going out of control. Many do not make it past the larval stage; parasitic flies often lay their eggs within the developing larvae, paralyzing them. They are also eaten by birds and assassin bugs.

harmful

Acanthocephala femorata is considered a tree pest because it feeds on the sap and tissues of trees, causing damage to the tree's health and potentially leading to its decline or death.

tree pest

Acanthocephala femorata can be considered garden pests because they have a tendency to feed on the leaves, stems, and fruits of various garden plants, causing damage and reducing the overall health and productivity of the garden.

garden pest

Acanthocephala femorata can be considered crop pests because they have been observed feeding on the leaves and stems of certain crops, leading to reduced crop yield and quality.

crop pest

Acanthocephala femorata is considered a pest because it feeds on the sap, tissues, leaves, stems, and fruits of trees, garden plants, and crops, causing damage and reducing their overall health, productivity, and yield.

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Do birds eat leaf footed bugs?

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