Lethocerus americanus, sometimes called the electric light bug, toe biter or fish killer, is a giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, native to southern Canada and the United States (north of 35°N; other Lethocerus species are found southwards). It typically has a length around 5–6 cm (2.0–2.4 in). It was originally classified as a species in the genus Belostoma.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of American Giant Water Bug being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Lethocerus uhleri
- Lethocerus patruelis
- Benacus griseus
- Lethocerus medius
- Lethocerus insulanus
- Kirkaldyia deyrolli
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Belostomatidae
- Genus
- Lethocerus
- Species
- Lethocerus americanus
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