Neotropical Backswimmer vs Lunar Hornet Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Neotropical Backswimmer | Lunar Hornet Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Buenoa antigone | Sesia bembeciformis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Notonectidae | Sesiidae |
| Size | 5-9 mm | 30–42 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Neotropical Backswimmer
A small aquatic bug that swims upside-down using its long oar-like hind legs. Its pale ventral surface provides camouflage when viewed from below against the sky.
Did You Know?
It carries a silvery air bubble on its belly that functions like a physical gill, extracting dissolved oxygen from the water.
Lunar Hornet Moth
A large clearwing moth that mimics a hornet and bores into willow and sallow trunks. Adults emerge in midsummer and are active in sunshine.
Did You Know?
The empty pupal skin can be found protruding from the exit hole on willow trunks long after the moth has emerged.