Backswimmer vs Cardinal Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Backswimmer | Cardinal Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Notonecta glauca | Pyrochroa coccinea |
| Order | Hemiptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Notonectidae | Pyrochroidae |
| Size | 14-16 mm | 14-18mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Backswimmer
An aquatic bug that swims upside down just beneath the water surface, using its long hind legs as oars. Its back is keeled like a boat hull and pale-colored for camouflage when viewed from below.
Did You Know?
Backswimmers swim inverted with their pale backs facing downward, providing counter-shading camouflage against the bright sky when predators look up from below.
Cardinal Beetle
A striking flat beetle with a bright scarlet body and large black eyes. Larvae are predators under bark.
Did You Know?
Named for its bright cardinal-red color that matches the robes of Roman Catholic cardinals.