Fire ant populations are typically much higher in conservation tilled fields and hence we typically see aphid populations build to high numbers a few days earlier in conservation tillage fields. However, once the aphids crash due to a naturally occurring fungus, fire ants again provide good predation of numerous pest species. When all things are considered, fire ants are one of our most important beneficials. We consider big-eyed bugs to be one of our most important predators. Adults and nymphs have broad heads and large, bulging eyes for which they are named.
Nymphs appear similar in shape to adults but lack wings and are generally gray in color.
Prey include bollworm eggs and small larvae, whiteflies, plant bugs, aphids, and mites. Big-eyed bugs will also feed on nectar and occasionally plant sap. Eggs have been common in squaring fields that I have visited. Eggs hatch in about 5 days and development from egg to adult requires about three to four weeks.