Human-biting potential of the predatory flower bug Orius majusculus (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)

Parasitol Res. 2011 Jun;108(6):1579-81. doi: 10.1007/s00436-010-2231-1. Epub 2011 Jan 13.

Abstract

The targeted biting of, and feeding on, humans by Orius majusculus, a flower bug predating on arthropods, is reported. Although the observed incidents certainly do not represent the normal feeding behaviour of the bug species, O. majusculus should be kept in mind as one option when insect bites during summer time are to be analysed.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Heteroptera / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Insect Bites and Stings / pathology*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction