Moss Grasshopper vs Iron Cross Blister Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Moss Grasshopper Iron Cross Blister Beetle
Scientific Name Batrachideinae sp. (Coscineuta coxalis) Tegrodera aloga
Order Orthoptera Coleoptera
Family Tetrigidae Meloidae
Size 10-18 mm 15-25 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Central America, South America Southwestern United States, Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Moss Grasshopper

A tiny pygmy grasshopper with an elongated pronotum covered in moss-like textures. It is practically invisible on moss-covered rocks and logs.

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Did You Know?

Its pronotum extends far beyond its abdomen and is textured to precisely mimic the moss it feeds on.

Iron Cross Blister Beetle

A striking beetle with bright yellow and black cross-shaped markings on its elytra. It contains cantharidin, a potent blistering agent.

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Did You Know?

Swarms occasionally emerge in massive numbers after favorable spring rains in the desert.