Negro Bug vs Chinese Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Negro Bug Chinese Mantis
Scientific Name Thyreocoris scarabaeoides Tenodera sinensis
Order Hemiptera Mantodea
Family Thyreocoridae Mantidae
Size 3-4mm 80-110 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Fruit Feeders Predators
Regions Europe Asia, North America (introduced)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Negro Bug

A tiny shiny black hemispherical bug that looks like a miniature beetle. It feeds on violets and strawberries.

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Did You Know?

So strongly resembles a tiny beetle that it is frequently misidentified and overlooked by bug enthusiasts.

Chinese Mantis

One of the largest mantis species in North America (introduced). An ambush predator with remarkable binocular vision. Females sometimes cannibalize males after or during mating.

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Did You Know?

Praying mantises are the only insects that can turn their heads 180 degrees to look over their shoulders — giving them a nearly full field of vision for hunting.