Algerian Desert Mantis vs Streamlined Backswimmer

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Algerian Desert Mantis Streamlined Backswimmer
Scientific Name Eremiaphila denticornis Notonecta irrorata
Order Mantodea Hemiptera
Family Eremiaphilidae Notonectidae
Size 25-35 mm 10-13 mm
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Algeria, Morocco North America
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Algerian Desert Mantis

A robust desert mantis with toothed antennae found in the rocky deserts of Algeria. It is among the larger species in the family.

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Did You Know?

Its antennae have small tooth-like projections that are unique among desert mantises.

Streamlined Backswimmer

A pale backswimmer with mottled wings found in still and slow-moving waters across North America. Like other backswimmers, it hangs just below the water surface film waiting for prey vibrations. It is a strong underwater swimmer.

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Did You Know?

It senses prey by detecting surface water vibrations with specialized sensory hairs on its legs, effectively turning the water surface into a detection web.