Flatid Planthopper vs Milkweed Assassin Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Flatid Planthopper | Milkweed Assassin Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Metcalfa pruinosa | Zelus longipes |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Flatidae | Reduviidae |
| Size | 5-8 mm | 16-20 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Gardens |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | North America, Europe | North America, Central America, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Flatid Planthopper
A small waxy-white planthopper native to North America that has invaded Europe. Nymphs produce long waxy filaments that make them look like tiny white flowers.
Did You Know?
Large aggregations of waxy nymphs on a branch can be mistaken for fungal growth or strange white blossoms.
Milkweed Assassin Bug
A slender, brightly colored assassin bug with red and black markings. It is a generalist predator common in gardens and agricultural fields.
Did You Know?
It coats its legs with sticky resin to trap small insects, functioning as a living flypaper strip.