Cave Cixiid vs Negro Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cave Cixiid | Negro Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Oliarus polyphemus | Thyreocoris scarabaeoides |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Cixiidae | Thyreocoridae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 3-4mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Underground |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Hawaii, Big Island | Europe |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Cave Cixiid
A remarkable cave-adapted planthopper from Hawaiian lava tubes that has lost its eyes and wings. Its body is pale and depigmented, adapted to complete darkness.
Did You Know?
This eyeless cave-dwelling planthopper was one of the first species used to study speciation in cave systems, with different populations in separate lava tubes diverging into distinct species.
Negro Bug
A tiny shiny black hemispherical bug that looks like a miniature beetle. It feeds on violets and strawberries.
Did You Know?
So strongly resembles a tiny beetle that it is frequently misidentified and overlooked by bug enthusiasts.