Australian Harlequin Bug vs Twig Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Harlequin Bug | Twig Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dindymus versicolor | Pseudomyrmex gracilis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Pyrrhocoridae | Formicidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 8-10 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Forests |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | North America, Central America, 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.
Twig Ant
A slender fast-moving ant that nests in hollow twigs and delivers a painful sting.
Did You Know?
It has excellent vision and can spot approaching threats from several centimeters away.