Function of the 'Fossula spongiosa' or Spongy Furrow in Reduviidæ (Rhynchota)

Abstract

So far as is known, the majority of Reduviidæ are predators of other insects, and consequently their anterior legs in particular, with the median legs, are of utmost importance in assisting them to capture their prey, especially when it is an active insect. But, in spite of their predaceous habits, it is perhaps remarkable that few Reduviidæ, with the exception of the sub-family Emesinæ and the Old World genera, Irantha, Polydidus and Scipinia, possess anterior legs of the raptorial type.