What is this mysterious bug with a hook in its tail?

[DaveC426913]

This critter (see attachment - not diagram) came to my attention by pricking me in the hand with a hook in its tail.

About 7mm long. Flattened profile. Prehensile hook in tail. Two tusk-like appendages straight out front. Very active, very supple.


Must be a larva of some sort.

Ideas?



Reminds me very much of a shrimp or of the "ear bug" from Wrath of Khan.

 

[zoobyshoe]

came to my attention by pricking me in the hand with a hook in its tail.

If it got my attention that way it would be called "dead".

 

[Proton Soup]

sort of looks like a silverfish, but if the hook is in the tail, maybe earwig?

 

[DaveC426913]

If it got my attention that way it would be called "dead".

It used it to hang on when its legs were occupied, like a caterpillar uses its ... (Googling) ... anal prolegs.

 

[Lacy33]

armadillobedbug.

 

[OmCheeto]

http://www.google.com/search?q=hoverfly+larvae"?

6000 species! You've have to send it in for DNA testing.

 

[DaveC426913]

silverfish, earwig, armadillobedbug, Hoverfly larva

Nope, nope, nope, nope. None of these look anything like my pix.

 

[Proton Soup]

thirp larva ?

maybe ask these guys: http://www.whatsthatbug.com/

 

[DaveC426913]

Yeah. Good idea.

This is my usual haunt:
http://nature.gardenweb.com/forums/name/