Japanese Giant Water Bug vs Amazonian Water Scorpion
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Giant Water Bug | Amazonian Water Scorpion |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lethocerus deyrolli | Ranatra spp. |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Belostomatidae | Nepidae |
| Size | 48-65 mm | 30-50 mm including siphon |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan | Throughout South America |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Japanese Giant Water Bug
Known as 'ta-garame' in Japanese, this is one of Japan's largest aquatic insects. A fearsome ambush predator that can catch small fish and frogs. Has declined dramatically due to habitat loss.
Did You Know?
Males of this species guard the eggs, which the female glues to emergent vegetation above water, by periodically climbing up to moisten them.
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.
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.