Peanut-Head Bug vs Cotton Aphid

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Peanut-Head Bug Cotton Aphid
Scientific Name Fulgora laternaria Aphis gossypii
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Fulgoridae Aphididae
Size 80-100 mm with head projection 1-1.8 mm
Habitat Forests Orchards
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Central America, South America Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Peanut-Head Bug

A large planthopper with a bizarre inflated head capsule resembling a peanut or an alligator. When threatened, it flashes large eyespots on its hindwings.

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Did You Know?

Local folklore claims its bite is fatal and must be cured by romantic relations within 24 hours, though it is actually harmless.

Cotton Aphid

A small yellowish-green to dark green aphid that attacks cotton, cucurbits, and citrus worldwide. It transmits numerous plant viruses and produces copious honeydew.

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Did You Know?

Its body color varies from yellow to nearly black depending on temperature, crowding, and host plant quality.