What is this?

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kdinkel Springville, UT Sep 27, 2010

I found this huge (2-3 inches) bug and I am unsure what it is. It looks like a beetle, but is mostly wings. It has six legs, but uses two upfront like hands? I have attached a picture.

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Post #8123874
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suunto Sinks Grove, WV Sep 27, 2010

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), possibly in the genus Lethocerus - see http://tinyurl.com/2bfkqnw for an example. Also known as electric light bugs or toe biters, these are general predators on other aquatic life forms, mostly other arthropods but also sometimes small minnows and tadpoles. They are very strong fliers, and often are found quite some distance from water.

Post #8123963
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kdinkel Springville, UT Sep 27, 2010

Thanks!

Post #8124242
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suunto Sinks Grove, WV Sep 28, 2010

You're welcome - I also should have mentioned that these insects can deliver a very painful 'bite' if handled carelessly, thanks to the proteolytic enzymes in their saliva. (used to break down the tissues of their prey).

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