Sage Leafhopper vs Hawthorn Shieldbug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sage Leafhopper Hawthorn Shieldbug
Scientific Name Eupteryx melissae Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Cicadellidae Acanthosomatidae
Size 3-3.5 mm 13-17 mm
Habitat Gardens Underground
Diet Herbivores Fruit Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sage Leafhopper

A small, attractively marked leafhopper found on sage and other labiates in gardens. Feeding causes pale stippling on leaves. Originally Mediterranean but expanding northward.

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Did You Know?

Has expanded its range significantly northward in Europe, likely benefiting from climate change and herb gardening.

Hawthorn Shieldbug

A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.

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Did You Know?

Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'