Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly vs Elm Seed Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly | Elm Seed Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysotoxum bicinctum | Arocatus melanocephalus |
| Order | Diptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Lygaeidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 6-7 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Europe (native), Northwestern North America (invasive) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly
A striking wasp-mimicking hoverfly with bold yellow and black banding. Distinguished from wasps by its hovering flight and single pair of wings. Larvae develop in ant nests.
Did You Know?
Despite being a harmless hoverfly, its excellent wasp mimicry deters most predators.
Elm Seed Bug
A small seed bug native to southern Europe that has become an invasive nuisance pest in the northwestern United States. It aggregates in enormous numbers on and inside buildings in summer and fall.
Did You Know?
Thousands can invade a single home seeking shelter, producing a foul odor when disturbed or crushed.