Common Malaria Mosquito vs Korean Water Scorpion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Malaria Mosquito Korean Water Scorpion
Scientific Name Anopheles quadrimaculatus Laccotrephes japonensis
Order Diptera Hemiptera
Family Culicidae Nepidae
Size 4-6 mm 30-38 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Blood Feeders Predators
Regions North America East Asia, Japan/Korea
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Malaria Mosquito

A freshwater mosquito that was the primary malaria vector in the eastern United States. Larvae float horizontally at the water surface in slow-moving waters.

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Did You Know?

It is named for the four dark spots on each wing that distinguish it from other Anopheles species.

Korean Water Scorpion

A flat, leaf-shaped aquatic predator found in Japan and Korea. Despite its name, it is not a true scorpion but a true bug with raptorial forelegs. Breathes through a siphon-like tail appendage.

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Did You Know?

The long breathing siphon at the rear works like a snorkel, allowing the water scorpion to breathe while remaining submerged and hidden among leaf litter.