Elm Seed Bug vs African Bladder Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Elm Seed Bug | African Bladder Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arocatus melanocephalus | Platypleura stridula |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Lygaeidae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 6-7 mm | 28-35 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Woodlands |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Europe (native), Northwestern North America (invasive) | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Elm Seed Bug
A small seed bug native to southern Europe that has become an invasive nuisance pest in the northwestern United States. It aggregates in enormous numbers on and inside buildings in summer and fall.
Did You Know?
Thousands can invade a single home seeking shelter, producing a foul odor when disturbed or crushed.
African Bladder Cicada
A sub-Saharan African cicada with flattened lateral extensions on its abdomen. It is commonly heard calling from trees in woodland savannas.
Did You Know?
The flattened thoracic extensions help the cicada blend seamlessly against tree bark when at rest.