Oak Lace Bug vs Pallid Kissing Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Oak Lace Bug Pallid Kissing Bug
Scientific Name Corythucha arcuata Triatoma pallidipennis
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Tingidae Reduviidae
Size 3-4 mm 24-30 mm
Habitat Woodlands Indoors
Diet Sap Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions North America, Europe (invasive since 2000s) Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Oak Lace Bug

A small whitish lace bug with darkened wing markings that feeds on oak trees. It is native to North America but has recently invaded Europe where it has become a serious pest. Heavy infestations can defoliate entire oak stands.

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Did You Know?

Since its accidental introduction to Italy around 2000, it has spread across most of southern and central Europe at a rate of about 60 kilometers per year.

Pallid Kissing Bug

A Chagas disease vector found in central and southwestern Mexico. It readily colonizes human dwellings in rural areas.

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Did You Know?

It is the most frequently collected triatomine species inside homes in the state of Morelos, Mexico.