Giant Agave Bug vs Giant Bark Aphid
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Agave Bug | Giant Bark Aphid |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acanthocephala thomasi | Longistigma caryae |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Coreidae | Aphididae |
| Size | 20-30 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | North America, Mexico | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Giant Agave Bug
A large coreid bug from the southwestern US and Mexico that feeds on agave and cacti. Males have impressively swollen hind femora used in combat.
Did You Know?
Males use their muscular hind legs like clubs, wrestling rival males off branches to win mating rights.
Giant Bark Aphid
The largest aphid in North America, with a body up to 6 mm long. It is grayish-brown with dark wing markings and feeds in conspicuous colonies on the bark of hardwood trees.
Did You Know?
Colonies on tree bark produce so much honeydew that it rains down onto cars, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture, creating a sticky nuisance in urban areas.