Common Pond Skater vs Red Assassin Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Pond Skater | Red Assassin Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aquarius najas | Rhynocoris iracundus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Gerridae | Reduviidae |
| Size | 14-17 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Grasslands |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Pond Skater
A large, elongate water strider that glides across the surface of flowing rivers and large ponds. It is one of the biggest European gerrid species with a dark brown body.
Did You Know?
Pond skaters communicate with potential mates and rivals by generating specific ripple patterns on the water surface, essentially sending coded messages across the water.
Red Assassin Bug
A striking red and black assassin bug common in European meadows and grasslands. It is a generalist predator that hunts among flowers and vegetation. The bright red coloration serves as a warning to potential predators.
Did You Know?
It hunts by ambush among wildflowers, using its raptorial forelegs to snatch visiting pollinators and other flower-visiting insects.