Dragonhunter vs Amazonian Water Scorpion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dragonhunter Amazonian Water Scorpion
Scientific Name Hagenius brevistylus Ranatra spp.
Order Odonata Hemiptera
Family Gomphidae Nepidae
Size 77-90 mm 30-50 mm including siphon
Habitat Rivers & Streams Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Predators
Regions North America Throughout South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dragonhunter

The largest clubtail in North America and a formidable aerial predator. Its massive size and bold black and yellow markings are unmistakable.

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Did You Know?

It regularly catches and eats other dragonflies, earning its fearsome common name.

Amazonian Water Scorpion

A stick-like aquatic bug with an extremely elongated body and long breathing siphon at the rear. It hangs motionless near the surface, ambushing passing prey.

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Did You Know?

Despite the common name, it is not a scorpion at all and is completely harmless to humans though it can deliver a mild prick.