Apple Sucker vs Springbok Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Apple Sucker | Springbok Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cacopsylla mali | Miomantis caffra |
| Order | Hemiptera | Mantodea |
| Family | Psyllidae | Mantidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 30-50mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Central Asia, East Asia | Africa, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Apple Sucker
A small psyllid pest of apple trees with greenish-brown coloring that changes seasonally. Nymphs produce copious honeydew and waxy secretions on developing buds and flowers.
Did You Know?
Heavy infestations can cause complete failure of fruit set, as nymphs feeding inside flower clusters kill the developing blossoms before they can be pollinated.
Springbok Mantis
A small bright green mantis native to southern Africa that has become invasive in New Zealand. Females are notorious for always cannibalizing males during mating. Males approach females with extreme caution.
Did You Know?
Female sexual cannibalism is nearly universal in this species, with males being eaten during mating over 60% of the time.