Insects That Start With R

When most people think of insects, they tend to imagine bothersome bugs that invade their homes or swarm around outdoor lights. However, there’s much more to these tiny creatures than meets the eye. Insects are a diverse and complex group of animals that have adapted to countless niches and lifestyles. They range from the microscopic to the meter-long, from the solitary to the social, and from the harmless to the deadly. They also exhibit a vast array of astounding behaviors, such as pollination, parasitism, mimicry, bioluminescence, and migration.

I created a list of insects by carefully researching and fact-checking each entry. It was a lot of work, but the final product is a comprehensive guide to a diverse range of insects.

So, let’s begin exploring this list of insects starting with R!

79 Insects That Start With R

And here’s the list of insects that begin with R letter.

Rabbit Louse

The rabbit louse, scientifically known as Haemodipsus ventricosus, is parasitic and feeds on the blood of rabbits. The louse spends its entire life cycle on the host and can cause severe itching, hair loss and even anemia in severe cases. These tiny insects can be transferred from one rabbit to another by direct contact and can also survive off a rabbit’s host for a few days, allowing it to spread easily. To prevent infestations, regular rabbit grooming and veterinary check-ups are recommended.

Rabbit Tick

The rabbit tick, also known as Ixodes ricinus, is a blood-sucking parasite found on rabbits and other mammals. These ticks can cause various diseases, including Lyme disease, and can also transmit diseases to other animals and humans. The tick is most commonly found in humid wooded areas and grasslands where it can attach itself to passing animals. It is important to check your rabbit regularly for ticks, especially if they have been outdoors. If confirmed, the tick should be removed carefully with tweezers, and a veterinarian should be consulted if any symptoms persist.

Ragweed Borer

The ragweed borer, known scientifically as Epiblema strenuana, is a moth that feeds on ragweed plants. The caterpillar of this species bores into the stem of the host plant, causing damage and weakening it. Adult moths are small and brownish-gray in color, and are nocturnal. They are most frequently found in the late summer and early fall. To prevent infestations, removing weeds from gardens and landscaping can be an effective method of controlling the population of the ragweed borer.

Ragweed Plant Bug

The ragweed plant bug, also known as Stenotus rubrovittatus, is a small insect that feeds on the sap of ragweed plants. Adults are brownish-green with a reddish-brown stripe running down their backs. These bugs can weaken and deform the host plants, making them more susceptible to diseases and other pests. Controlling ragweed populations through regular weeding and removing of damaged plant parts can help prevent infestations of the ragweed plant bug.

Rain Beetles

The rain beetle, also known as Pleocoma spp., is a large beetle that lives predominantly on the west coast of the United States. They emerge from underground during the rainy season and can be heard flying around in the evenings. Adults feed on the flowers of various plants and shrubs. Rain beetles are important decomposers in forest ecosystems, and their larvae feed on decaying organic matter.

Raisin Moth

The raisin moth, scientifically known as Cadra figulilella, is a small insect that feeds on dried fruits, such as raisins and figs. The caterpillars of this species can cause significant damage to stored fruits if left unchecked. To prevent infestation, proper storage of dried fruits is essential, including thorough drying and sealing in airtight containers with mothballs.

Range Caterpillar

The range caterpillar, also known as Hemileuca oliviae, is a moth found in the western regions of North America. The larvae of this species are known for their distinct appearance, with black and white stripes and long hairs. Caterpillars feed on various plants, including sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and bitterbrush. The range caterpillar moth is an important pollinator of these plants and is a vital part of the ecosystem.

Range Crane Fly

The range crane fly, scientifically known as Tipula rangei, is a species of large insect found in the western regions of North America. Adults feed on nectar, while the larvae feed on the roots of various plants. The range crane fly is an important pollinator of wildflowers and other plants and serves as prey for many animals in the ecosystem.

Rapid Plant Bug

The rapid plant bug, also known as Miridius quadrivirgatus, is a small bug that feeds on various plants. They are most frequently found in the late summer and early fall, and adults feed on the sap of host plants. These bugs can cause significant damage to plant tissues, weakening and stressing the host plant. Controlling the population of rapid plant bugs can be achieved through regular inspection and pruning of damaged plant parts.

Raspberry Bud Moth

The raspberry bud moth, scientifically known as Aegeria atomus, is a moth that feeds on the buds and bark of raspberry plants. Their larvae bore into the bark, causing significant damage and weakening the plant. Raspberry bud moths prefer to lay their eggs on damaged or weak plants and are a common pest of commercial raspberry growers. Control can be achieved through regular pruning and removing of damaged plant parts.

Raspberry Cane Borer

The raspberry cane borer, known scientifically as Oberea bimaculata, is a species of beetle that feeds on raspberry canes and brambles. Adult beetles lay their eggs on the raspberry plant, and the larvae bore into the cane, causing significant damage and weakening the plant. Control can be achieved through utilizing resistant raspberry varieties, pruning damaged plant parts, and ensuring proper plant hygiene.

Raspberry Cane Maggot

The raspberry cane maggot, also known as Resseliella theobaldi, is a small fly that feeds and reproduces on raspberry plants. The larva of this species bores into the raspberry cane and causes damage to the plant. Prevention of infestations can be accomplished through proper plant hygiene, pruning of damaged plant parts, and the use of insecticides.

Raspberry Crown Borer

The raspberry crown borer, scientifically known as Pennisetia marginata, is a species of moth that feeds on the crown of raspberry plants and brambles. Adult moths lay their eggs on the base of the raspberry plant, and the larvae bore into the crown, causing damage and weakening of the plant. Prevention of infestations can be accomplished through proper plant hygiene, pruning of damaged plant parts, and the use of insecticides.

Raspberry Fruitworm

The raspberry fruitworm, known scientifically as Byturus rubi, is a small beetle that feeds on the fruit of raspberry plants. The larvae of this species may also cause significant damage to the raspberry fruit in the early stages of development. Control can be achieved through the use of sticky traps and limited application of insecticides.

Raspberry Leafroller

The raspberry leafroller, scientifically known as Archips rosana, is a moth that feeds on the leaves of raspberry plants. The larvae of this species spin webs around the leaves, causing significant damage and weakening the plant. Control can be achieved through pruning of damaged plant parts and proper plant hygiene.

Raspberry Sawfly

The raspberry sawfly, also known as Cephidae spp., is a small insect that feeds on the foliage of raspberry plants. The larvae of this species can cause significant damage to the leaves, weakening the plant. Control can be achieved through pruning of damaged plant parts, proper plant hygiene, and the use of insecticides.

Red Admiral

The red admiral, scientifically known as Vanessa atalanta, is a species of butterfly commonly found throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. They primarily feed on nectar and are known for their distinct red-orange wings with black markings. Red admirals are often considered beneficial to gardens, as they serve as pollinators for many flowering plants.

Red Assassin Bug

The red assassin bug, known scientifically as Pyrrhocoris apterus, is a species of predatory insect found in the Americas and Europe. They are known for their red and black markings and their ability to ambush and kill other insects. Red assassin bugs are important predators in many ecosystems and can help control populations of other insect pests.

Red Carpenter Ant

The red carpenter ant, scientifically known as Camponotus spp., is a species of ant found throughout North America. They are reddish-brown in colour and are known for their ability to excavate wood to create nests. The ants feed on a variety of substances, including insects, honeydew, and plant sap. Carpenter ants can cause significant damage to wooden structures and should be dealt with through professional pest control.

Red Date Scale

The red date scale, also known as Phoenicococcus marlatti, is a species of scale insect that feeds on the leaves and bark of date palms. The insects are reddish-brown in colour and can cause significant damage to host plants if left untreated, including yellowing of the foliage and stunted growth. Control can be achieved through the use of insecticides and proper plant hygiene.

Red Flour Beetle

This tiny reddish-brown beetle is a common pantry pest that feeds on flour, cereal, and other dry goods. They can quickly infest a kitchen if left unchecked.

Red Grasshopper Mite

Not actually a true insect, the red grasshopper mite is a parasitic mite that feeds on the blood of grasshoppers. They can cause significant harm to grasshopper populations in areas of high infestation.

Red Harvester Ant

These ants are known for their bright red color and can be found in dry, arid regions of the United States. They are named for their behavior of collecting and storing seeds and other plant material for food.

Red Milkweed Beetle

A common sight on milkweed plants, the red milkweed beetle is a bright red insect with black markings. They feed on the leaves of milkweed and can be important pollinators of the plant.

Red Oak Borer

This large, red and black beetle is a common pest of oak trees in the eastern United States. They lay their eggs in the bark of the tree and the larvae feed on the tree’s inner bark, causing damage to the tree.

Red Orchid Scale

This tiny red scale insect feeds on orchids and other plants. They can cause significant damage to the plant if left untreated, and are often found in greenhouses.

Red Palm Weevil

A serious pest of palm trees, the red palm weevil is a large beetle with a long, thin snout. They lay their eggs in the palm tree’s trunk, and the larvae feed on the tree’s inner tissues, eventually killing the tree.

Red Pine Sawfly

This bright red sawfly feeds on the needles of pine trees. While their feeding can cause significant damage to the tree, they are not typically considered a major pest.

Red Turnip Beetle

Also known as the beet armyworm, this small red beetle feeds on turnip greens and other cruciferous vegetables. They are a common pest in vegetable gardens.

Red Turpentine Beetle

This large, reddish-brown beetle is a common pest of pine trees. They lay their eggs in the bark of the tree, and the larvae feed on the tree’s inner bark. Infestations can cause significant damage to the tree.

Red Wax Scale

This reddish-brown scale insect feeds on a wide variety of plants and trees. They can be a serious pest in greenhouses and other indoor growing environments.

Red-faced Banana Spider

This large, red and black spider is commonly found in banana plantations in Central and South America. They are not considered highly venomous, but their large size can be intimidating.

Red-legged Banana Spider

Also known as the Brazilian wandering spider, this spider has bright red legs and a highly venomous bite. They are considered one of the most dangerous spiders in the world.

Redbacked Cutworm

This caterpillar is a common pest of many crops, including corn, soybeans, and vegetables. They feed on the leaves and stems of plants and can cause significant yield losses.

Redbanded Leafroller

This small moth is a common pest in vineyards. The larvae feed on the leaves and buds of grapevines and can cause significant damage to the crop.

Redbanded Stink Bug

This bright red stink bug is a common pest in fruit orchards and vegetable gardens. They feed on the fruit and leaves of plants and can cause significant damage to the crop.

Redbanded Thrips

This small, red insect feeds on the leaves of plants, and can cause significant damage to crops in high populations. They are a common pest in greenhouse environments.

Redbay Ambrosia Beetle

This small, reddish-brown beetle is a pest of bay trees in the southeastern United States. They feed on the tree’s inner bark and can cause significant damage to the tree.

Redbelted Bumble Bee

This large, fuzzy bumblebee has a bright red stripe around its abdomen. They are important pollinators of many plants and are found throughout North America.

Redberry Mite

This tiny mite feeds on the leaves of raspberry and blackberry plants, and can cause significant damage to the crop.

Redblack Oedemerid

This small, reddish-brown beetle is a common sight in gardens and fields. They feed on flowers and leaves, and can be important pollinators of some plants.

Redbud Leaffolder

This small moth is a common pest of redbud trees. The larvae feed on the leaves, causing them to fold over and retain their shape.

Redbud Seed Beetle

This small, reddish-brown beetle feeds on the seeds of redbud trees. While they can cause damage to the tree, they are not typically considered a significant pest.

Redheaded Ash Borer

This large, reddish-brown beetle is a pest of ash trees in the eastern United States. They lay their eggs in the bark of the tree, and the larvae feed on the inner bark, causing damage to the tree.

Redheaded Pine Sawfly

This bright red sawfly feeds on the needles of pine trees. While their feeding can cause significant damage to the tree, they are not typically considered a major pest.

Redhumped Caterpillar

This caterpillar is a common pest of many crops, including corn, soybeans, and vegetables. They feed on the leaves and stems of plants and can cause significant yield losses.

Redlegged Flea Beetle

This small, reddish-brown beetle is a common pest of vegetable gardens. They feed on the leaves of many crops, including tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers.

Redlegged Grasshopper

This large grasshopper is named for its bright red legs. They are found throughout North America and can be a significant pest in agricultural areas.

Redlegged Ham Beetle

This small, reddish-brown beetle feeds on ham and other cured meats. They are a common pest in homes and food processing facilities.

Redmargined Assassin Bug

This predatory insect feeds on other insects, and can be an important natural control for pest populations in gardens and fields. They are found throughout the United States.

Rednecked Cane Borer

This little guy bores into the stalks of sugarcane, causing significant damage to the plant and decreasing overall yield.

Rednecked Peanutworm

The Rednecked Peanutworm typically feeds on peanuts, causing significant damage to the plant and decreasing overall yield.

Redshouldered Ham Beetle

The Redshouldered Ham Beetle is a common pest of meats, grains, and other stored food products.

Redshouldered Stink Bug

The Redshouldered Stink Bug is a major agricultural pest, feeding on a wide variety of crops and causing significant damage to plants.

Redtailed Spider Wasp

The Redtailed Spider Wasp is a predatory insect that preys on spiders, stinging and paralyzing them before laying eggs on their bodies to provide food for their young.

Redtailed Tachina

The Redtailed Tachina is a type of parasitic fly that lays eggs on caterpillars, which hatch into larvae that feed on the host and eventually kill it.

Relapsing Fever Tick

Ticks in the genus Ornithodoros are known to transmit relapsing fever, a bacterial infection that can cause serious illness in humans.

Resplendent Shield Bearer

The Resplendent Shield Bearer is a type of moth with bright, metallic scales on its wings that give it a striking appearance.

Reticulate Mite

The Reticulate Mite is a tiny, parasitic mite that feeds on other insects, such as aphids, and can help to control pest populations.

Reticulatewinged Trogiid

The Reticulatewinged Trogiid is a small beetle that is found in tropical regions and can be a pest of stored grain products.

Rhinoceros Beetle

The Rhinoceros Beetle is a large, herbivorous beetle that feeds on a variety of plant material and is known for its distinctive horn-like structure on its head.

Rhodesgrass Mealybug

The Rhodesgrass Mealybug is an agricultural pest that feeds on a wide variety of crops, including sorghum, corn, and rice.

Rhododendron Borer

The Rhododendron Borer is a type of clearwing moth that feeds on and damages rhododendron and azalea plants.

Rhododendron Gall Midge

The Rhododendron Gall Midge is a tiny, fly-like insect that causes abnormal growths, or galls, on the leaves and stems of rhododendron plants.

Rhododendron Lace Bug

The Rhododendron Lace Bug is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on the leaves of rhododendron and azalea plants, causing damage and discoloration.

Rhododendron Whitefly

The Rhododendron Whitefly is a tiny, sap-sucking insect that feeds on the leaves of rhododendron plants, causing damage and discoloration.

Rhubarb Curculio

The Rhubarb Curculio is a beetle that feeds on rhubarb plants, causing significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant.

Ribbed Pine Borer

The Ribbed Pine Borer is a type of longhorn beetle that feeds on the bark and wood of pine trees, causing significant damage to the tree.

Rice Delphacid

The Rice Delphacid is a type of plant hopper that feeds on rice plants, causing leaf yellowing and plant stunting.

Rice Leaffolder

The Rice Leaffolder is a caterpillar that feeds on rice plants, causing damage to the leaves and stems and reducing overall yield.

Rice Leafhopper

The Rice Leafhopper is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on rice plants, causing damage and reducing overall yield.

Rice Moth

The Rice Moth is a type of moth that feeds on stored rice and grain products, causing significant damage and contamination.

Rice Root Aphid

The Rice Root Aphid is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on the roots of rice plants, causing damage and reducing overall yield.

Rice Stalk Borer

The Rice Stalk Borer is a caterpillar that feeds on the stems of rice plants, causing damage and reducing overall yield.

Rice Stink Bug

The Rice Stink Bug is a major agricultural pest of rice crops, feeding on the seeds and causing significant damage.

Rice Water Weevil

The Rice Water Weevil is a type of beetle that feeds on the roots of rice plants, causing significant damage and reducing overall yield.

Rice Weevil

The Rice Weevil is a type of beetle that feeds on stored rice and grain products, causing significant damage and contamination.

Ridgewinged Fungus Beetle

The Ridgewinged Fungus Beetle is a type of beetle that feeds on fungi and decaying plant material, playing an important role in ecosystems as a decomposer.

Ringlegged Earwig

The Ringlegged Earwig is a type of earwig that is found in North America, feeding on a variety of insects, plants, and other organic matter.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of R insects.

I consulted with various experts in the field to ensure the accuracy of my information. When creating my list of insects, I wanted to make sure I had all the necessary details and information. The result is a comprehensive guide that anyone can use as a reference.

Insects are an incredibly diverse group of animals that play a significant role in our world. From pollinating plants to being a vital food source for many creatures, insects are essential for ecological balance. Though often considered pests, they are crucial for maintaining the health of our ecosystems. However, they are facing numerous threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and the use of pesticides. It is vital to protect and preserve these crucial creatures to ensure a healthy planet for generations to come.

Hope this post on insects beginning with R alphabet has been useful to you!