Desert Seed Bug vs Lined Tiger Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Desert Seed Bug Lined Tiger Moth
Scientific Name Melacoryphus lateralis Grammia virgo
Order Hemiptera Lepidoptera
Family Lygaeidae Arctiidae
Size 5-7 mm 55-75 mm wingspan
Habitat Meadows Meadows
Diet Seed Feeders Herbivores
Regions North America Eastern and Central North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Desert Seed Bug

A small red and black seed bug found in arid habitats across western North America. It feeds on seeds of desert wildflowers and grasses.

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Did You Know?

It aggregates in large, conspicuous groups on desert plants, using warning colors to deter predators.

Lined Tiger Moth

A boldly patterned moth with black forewings bearing thin cream stripes and bright pinkish-red hindwings with black patches. It is one of the largest North American tiger moths.

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Did You Know?

When threatened, it emits a frothy yellow fluid from glands behind its head that contains noxious chemicals.