Milkweed Bug vs Big-legged Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Milkweed Bug | Big-legged Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Oncopeltus fasciatus | Acanthocephala terminalis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Lygaeidae | Coreidae |
| Size | 10-13 mm | 17-23 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Underground |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | North America, Central America | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Milkweed Bug
A medium-sized bug with bold orange-red and black warning coloration. It feeds on milkweed seeds and sequesters toxic cardiac glycosides for its own defense.
Did You Know?
This bug has become a widely used laboratory model organism because it is easy to rear, has no diapause requirement, and displays clear warning coloration.
Big-legged Bug
A large, dark coreid bug found in eastern North America with prominently expanded hind tibiae. The hind femora of males are greatly swollen with large spines. It feeds on a wide variety of trees and shrubs.
Did You Know?
The exaggerated hind legs of males serve as weapons and signals of fitness, with larger-legged males winning more fights and mates.