Pellucid Hoverfly vs Planthopper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pellucid Hoverfly Planthopper
Scientific Name Volucella pellucens Flatida rosea
Order Diptera Hemiptera
Family Syrphidae Flatidae
Size 14-17 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Scavengers Herbivores
Regions Europe, Western Asia Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pellucid Hoverfly

A large black hoverfly with a striking translucent white band across its abdomen. Its larvae are inquilines in the underground nests of social wasps.

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Did You Know?

Its translucent white abdominal band makes it look like it has a window in its body, unlike any other hoverfly.

Planthopper

A delicate, pinkish-white planthopper that closely resembles a flower petal when resting on vegetation. Nymphs produce waxy white filaments from their abdomens.

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Did You Know?

When a group of these pink planthoppers cluster together on a branch, they collectively resemble a flower cluster, creating a communal camouflage display.