Wheel Bug vs Large Alpine Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Wheel Bug | Large Alpine Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arilus cristatus | Perla grandis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Reduviidae | Perlidae |
| Size | 28-36 mm | 20-33 mm body length |
| Habitat | Orchards | Mountains |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe, Alps, Pyrenees |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Wheel Bug
The largest assassin bug in North America, named for the distinctive cogwheel-shaped crest on its thorax. It delivers an extremely painful bite if handled.
Did You Know?
Its bite injects cytolytic venom that dissolves tissue, producing pain reported to be worse than a wasp sting lasting for days.
Large Alpine Stonefly
One of the largest European stoneflies, found in clean mountain rivers. Its nymphs take several years to develop in cold water.
Did You Know?
Nymphs may take up to four years to complete development in cold alpine waters.