What are these bugs. I find them on morning glories

Zephyrhills, FL

They are beneficial, plentiful and since they moved in I have noticed much less less pest damage showing on the leaves of the plants.I have seen them eating grasshoppers and other pests.These two were mating and I certainly welcome their offspring.

Thumbnail by ransom3
Garland, TX(Zone 8a)

I think you may have a mating pair of Euthyrhynchus floridanus or Florida Predatory Stink Bugs...

http://www.biology.duke.edu/dukeinsects/Euthyrhynchus_floridanus.php
http://davesgarden.com/guides/bf/go/1259/

edited to add: Your photo would make a great addition to the BugFiles since it seems to be lacking in photos of adults... of course, that is, if my ID is correct... but still, nice photo!

This message was edited Apr 10, 2012 10:42 PM

Jacksonville, AR(Zone 7b)

Great photo

Zephyrhills, FL

Thank you so much, nifty413 and your ID is correct. The one with the bright orange spots marks the male.The big lady has red markings.I have learned that this pretty insect has another common name from reading that link, Halloween bug. I'll go with that name for an obvious reason. What a beautiful difference in foliage I see now. I am absolutely amazed.I suspect this species is solving my gold tortoise beetle infestation which is primarily responsible for the unsightliness. Now I see these Halloween bugs without having to look too long for one.
I will submit this image and future ones too to Plant Files.Hi, Patootie and thanks.

Garland, TX(Zone 8a)

Glad to help and glad you're having favorable results from their presence!

(Doug) Murfreesboro, TN

ransom,
What kind of camera and settings did you use to take this closeup picture of bugs? It's quite good.

Zephyrhills, FL

Hi, Doug. It is a Fuji Finepix HS 20. The setting is EXR which is for Macro. Thank you.

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