Zelus longipes is an assassin bug (Reduviidae) that is a member of the harpactorinae subfamily. Its distribution ranges include southern North America, Central America, and South America (except Chile), especially in agroecosystems in Brazil.
Z. longipes has been considered as a potential biocontrol agent, as it prefers caterpillars of Spodoptera frugiperda, which is a moth that is a pest in cornfields.  The species is a generalist predator, commonly used to combat picture-winged flies (Diptera: Ulidiidae), which cause damage to sweet corn yields in Florida.  Z. longipes prefers smaller caterpillars, probably because there is less risk of injury while subduing smaller prey.

harmful

venomous

bite

Zelus longipes can be considered garden pests because they feed on a variety of insects, including beneficial ones like pollinators, which can disrupt the ecological balance in the garden ecosystem. Additionally, their predatory behavior may cause damage to plants and crops if their population becomes excessive.

garden pest

Zelus longipes can be considered crop pests because they have been observed feeding on various agricultural pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and leafhoppers, which can cause damage to crops and reduce yields. Additionally, their predatory behavior may disrupt the natural balance of beneficial insects in agricultural ecosystems.

crop pest

Zelus longipes can be considered pests because they feed on a variety of insects, including beneficial ones like pollinators, which can disrupt the ecological balance in the garden ecosystem and cause damage to plants and crops if their population becomes excessive. Additionally, they have been observed feeding on various agricultural pests, which can cause damage to crops and reduce yields.

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