African Bladder Cicada vs Eastern Calligrapher
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | African Bladder Cicada | Eastern Calligrapher |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Platypleura stridula | Toxomerus geminatus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Diptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 28-35 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Sub-Saharan Africa | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
African Bladder Cicada
A sub-Saharan African cicada with flattened lateral extensions on its abdomen. It is commonly heard calling from trees in woodland savannas.
Did You Know?
The flattened thoracic extensions help the cicada blend seamlessly against tree bark when at rest.
Eastern Calligrapher
A tiny hoverfly with intricate black calligraphic markings on a yellow abdomen. It is one of the most abundant flower flies in eastern North America.
Did You Know?
Despite its small size, it is one of the most effective aphid predators in North American gardens.