Soybean Aphid vs Cotton Harlequin Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Soybean Aphid Cotton Harlequin Bug
Scientific Name Aphis glycines Tectocoris diophthalmus
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Aphididae Scutelleridae
Size 1-1.5 mm 15-20 mm
Habitat Farmland Beaches & Coastal
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions North America, East Asia Australia, Oceania
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Soybean Aphid

A small pale yellow aphid that invaded North America in 2000 and became the most important soybean pest on the continent. Dense colonies stunt plants and reduce pod fill.

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Did You Know?

Populations can double every two to three days under favorable conditions, reaching tens of thousands per plant.

Cotton Harlequin Bug

One of Australia's most colourful insects, with a brilliant metallic orange and iridescent blue-black shield-shaped body. The colour pattern varies between individuals, with females being larger and more brightly marked.

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Did You Know?

Females guard their eggs and young nymphs, standing over them protectively in a rare display of maternal care for a bug.