Korean Water Scorpion vs White-Tipped Planthopper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Korean Water Scorpion White-Tipped Planthopper
Scientific Name Laccotrephes japonensis Siphanta acuta
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Nepidae Flatidae
Size 30-38 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Orchards
Diet Predators Sap Feeders
Regions East Asia, Japan/Korea Australia, introduced to Hawaii, California, Mediterranean
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Korean Water Scorpion

A flat, leaf-shaped aquatic predator found in Japan and Korea. Despite its name, it is not a true scorpion but a true bug with raptorial forelegs. Breathes through a siphon-like tail appendage.

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Did You Know?

The long breathing siphon at the rear works like a snorkel, allowing the water scorpion to breathe while remaining submerged and hidden among leaf litter.

White-Tipped Planthopper

A bright green, wedge-shaped planthopper with white-tipped wings that mimics a small leaf. It is a common pest that has spread to many subtropical regions.

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Did You Know?

It holds its wings steeply tent-like over its body, creating a perfect leaf-shaped silhouette.