Torpedo Bug vs Pear Leaf-curling Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Torpedo Bug | Pear Leaf-curling Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Siphanta hebes | Dasineura pyri |
| Order | Hemiptera | Diptera |
| Family | Flatidae | Cecidomyiidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 1-2 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Orchards |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Australia, Pacific Islands, Hawaii (invasive) | Europe, Asia, introduced to North America and Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Torpedo Bug
A bright green flatid planthopper with an elongated torpedo-shaped body profile when wings are folded. It is native to Australia and has been introduced to various Pacific islands.
Did You Know?
In Hawaii, where it was accidentally introduced, it became a minor pest of macadamia nut trees and ornamental plants but is now largely controlled by natural enemies.
Pear Leaf-curling Midge
A minute gall midge whose larvae cause pear leaves to roll tightly inward along their margins. Multiple generations can occur per year, progressively damaging pear tree foliage.
Did You Know?
The larvae manipulate plant growth hormones to force leaves to curl around them, creating a protective shelter.