Citrus Mealybug vs Common Water Strider
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Citrus Mealybug | Common Water Strider |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Planococcus citri | Aquarius remigis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Pseudococcidae | Gerridae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 11-16 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Fruit Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Worldwide tropical and subtropical regions | Throughout North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Citrus Mealybug
A soft-bodied, waxy-coated insect that clusters on citrus fruits, stems, and roots while feeding on sap. Heavy infestations weaken plants and contaminate fruit with honeydew and wax.
Did You Know?
The ladybird beetle Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, known as the mealybug destroyer, was one of the first biocontrol agents ever deployed against this pest.
Common Water Strider
A slender dark brown insect that skates across the surface of streams and ponds using water surface tension. Its long middle and hind legs distribute its weight over the water film.
Did You Know?
Tiny hydrophobic hairs on its legs trap air and repel water, allowing it to stand on the surface without breaking through.