Boxelder Bug vs Apical Flower Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Boxelder Bug Apical Flower Mantis
Scientific Name Boisea trivittata Creobroter apicalis
Order Hemiptera Mantodea
Family Rhopalidae Hymenopodidae
Size 11-14 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Sap Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions North America Indonesia, Malaysia, Borneo
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Boxelder Bug

A black and red bug that forms large aggregations on and around boxelder trees in autumn. It is commonly seen warming itself on sunny building walls before entering structures to overwinter. It is harmless but considered a nuisance pest.

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Did You Know?

Thousands of individuals can aggregate on the south-facing walls of buildings on warm autumn days, creating dramatic displays before entering homes to overwinter in wall voids.

Apical Flower Mantis

A small flower mantis from Southeast Asia with distinctive markings at the tips of its forewings. It is commonly found on low shrubs and herbaceous plants.

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Did You Know?

The dark apical spots on its wings give it its common name and help identify the species.