Australian Harlequin Bug vs Tropical Bed Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Harlequin Bug | Tropical Bed Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dindymus versicolor | Cimex hemipterus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Pyrrhocoridae | Cimicidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Forests |
| Diet | Predators | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | Southeast Asia, Africa, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Harlequin Bug
A small but conspicuous red and black bug that often aggregates in large numbers on tree trunks, fences, and walls during autumn. Its bright colouration warns predators of its foul-tasting defensive secretions.
Did You Know?
Harlequin bugs produce a pungent smell when disturbed, and large aggregations can number in the thousands.
Tropical Bed Bug
A tropical relative of the common bed bug that also feeds on human blood. It is the dominant bed bug species in many parts of the tropics.
Did You Know?
It can hybridize with the common bed bug in laboratory settings, though hybrids are infertile.