Ant Mimic Plant Bug
Coquillettia
This plant bug was found on an inflorescvence of Big Galeta (Pleuraphis rigida), a perennial grass. Location was Rainbow Valley, Maricopa County, Arizona, USA on 08 May 2010. Actual size is about 8 mm
Miridae -- Plant Bug Family
Honey Pot Ants, Myrmecocystus, are capable of delivering a potent shot of formic acid if attacked by an insectivorous bird or reptile. The experience is enough to prevent any repitition of a predation attempt. This bug, by way of natural selection, has come to take advantage of that fact. By appearing in minute detail to be just that, a honey pot ant, it is avoided by sharp-eyed birds and lizards, thereby allowing it to feed quite peacefully on exposed flower parts.
But if this bug were to meet up with the real McCoy, i.e. a
genuine Myrmecocystus ant, it could well become prey because the ants
are predatory! Identification of the bug was provided by the many dedicated and
enthusiastic volunteers of the web site Bugguide.net