Wheel Bug vs White-Tipped Planthopper
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Wheel Bug | White-Tipped Planthopper |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arilus cristatus | Siphanta acuta |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Reduviidae | Flatidae |
| Size | 28-36 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Orchards |
| Diet | Omnivores | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Australia, introduced to Hawaii, California, Mediterranean |
| 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.
White-Tipped Planthopper
A bright green, wedge-shaped planthopper with white-tipped wings that mimics a small leaf. It is a common pest that has spread to many subtropical regions.
Did You Know?
It holds its wings steeply tent-like over its body, creating a perfect leaf-shaped silhouette.