Pennsylvania Ambush Bug vs Neotropical Toe-Biter
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pennsylvania Ambush Bug | Neotropical Toe-Biter |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phymata pennsylvanica | Belostoma elongatum |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Reduviidae | Belostomatidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 40-55 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Eastern North America from Canada to the Gulf states | Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Pennsylvania Ambush Bug
A small chunky yellow and brown bug with thickened raptorial forelegs that hides in flower heads to ambush pollinators. It can capture prey many times its own size.
Did You Know?
It can capture and kill bumble bees and butterflies that are more than ten times its own weight.
Neotropical Toe-Biter
A large aquatic predatory bug with flattened body and powerful raptorial forelegs. It is common in South American freshwater habitats.
Did You Know?
It breathes through a retractable siphon at its rear, hanging just below the water surface like a snorkel.