Marsh Treader vs Giant Bark Aphid
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Marsh Treader | Giant Bark Aphid |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hydrometra stagnorum | Longistigma caryae |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Hydrometridae | Aphididae |
| Size | 9-12 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Marsh Treader
An extremely slender, stick-like bug with a greatly elongated head. It walks slowly across floating vegetation and water surfaces at pond margins, probing for tiny prey.
Did You Know?
Its elongated head and rostrum give it a bizarre twig-like appearance, providing excellent camouflage among vegetation.
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.