Cotton Harlequin Bug vs Australian Antlion
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cotton Harlequin Bug | Australian Antlion |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tectocoris diophthalmus | Myrmeleon acer |
| Order | Hemiptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Scutelleridae | Myrmeleontidae |
| Size | 15-20 mm | 30-40 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cotton Harlequin Bug
One of Australia's most colourful insects, with a brilliant metallic orange and iridescent blue-black shield-shaped body. The colour pattern varies between individuals, with females being larger and more brightly marked.
Did You Know?
Females guard their eggs and young nymphs, standing over them protectively in a rare display of maternal care for a bug.
Australian Antlion
A medium-sized antlion common in sandy habitats across Australia. Its larvae construct classic conical pit traps in sheltered sandy ground.
Did You Know?
Australian antlion larvae flick sand grains at prey trying to escape their pits, causing tiny avalanches that drag victims to the bottom.