Common Water Strider vs Hawthorn Shieldbug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Water Strider | Hawthorn Shieldbug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aquarius remigis | Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Gerridae | Acanthosomatidae |
| Size | 11-16 mm | 13-17 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Throughout North America | Europe |
| 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.
Hawthorn Shieldbug
A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.
Did You Know?
Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'