Common Pond Skater vs Red-Banded Leafhopper
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Pond Skater | Red-Banded Leafhopper |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aquarius najas | Graphocephala coccinea |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Gerridae | Cicadellidae |
| Size | 14-17 mm | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| 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-Banded Leafhopper
A brilliantly colored leafhopper with alternating red and blue-green stripes. It is one of the most visually striking leafhoppers in North America.
Did You Know?
Its candy-striped red and blue pattern makes it look more like a tiny piece of jewelry than an insect.