Common Water Strider vs Giant African Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Water Strider | Giant African Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aquarius remigis | Sphodromantis gastrica |
| Order | Hemiptera | Mantodea |
| Family | Gerridae | Mantidae |
| Size | 11-16 mm | 70-100 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Throughout North America | Southern Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Giant African Mantis
One of Africa's largest mantis species with a robust green or brown body. It can catch prey as large as small lizards and frogs.
Did You Know?
They have been observed catching and eating hummingbird-sized sunbirds at garden feeders in South Africa.