Western Corn Rootworm vs Sand Gropper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Corn Rootworm Sand Gropper
Scientific Name Diabrotica virgifera Cylindraustralia kochii
Order Coleoptera Orthoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Cylindrachetidae
Size 5-7 mm 20-35 mm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Root Feeders Root Feeders
Regions North America, Europe Oceania
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Western Corn Rootworm

One of the most economically damaging corn pests in North America. Larvae feed on corn roots, causing plants to lodge and reducing yields.

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Did You Know?

This beetle costs U.S. farmers over one billion dollars annually in crop losses and control expenses.

Sand Gropper

A bizarre cylindrical cricket adapted for burrowing in sandy soils in Australia.

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Did You Know?

It convergently evolved a mole-cricket-like body despite being in a separate family.