Animals That Borrow Other Species as Defenses, Disguises, and Shelters

Some assassin bug nymphs take camouflage into territory that looks almost designed for a horror movie. After capturing and feeding on ants or other small arthropods, certain species attach the emptied remains of their prey to sticky material on their backs. Over time, the accumulated corpses can form a conspicuous pile that obscures the insect underneath. The disguise may provide protection by making the assassin bug harder for predators to recognize or by creating a physical barrier between attacker and prey. Research on corpse-carrying assassin bugs has provided evidence that this unusual covering can reduce predation risk under certain conditions. Other assassin bugs use dust, debris, plant material, or environmental particles for similar concealment, demonstrating that the broader strategy is not limited to wearing dead prey. The visual effect of a corpse-covered individual is nevertheless difficult to forget. Assassin bugs are predators themselves, using a piercing rostrum to attack prey and consume liquefied tissues.