The Gelastocoridae (toad bugs) is a family of about 100 species of insects in the suborder Heteroptera. These fall into two genera, about 15 species of Gelastocoris from the New World and 85 of Nerthra from the Old World. [1] They are reminiscent of toads both in the warty appearance and hopping movements of some species.

Toad bug, (family Gelastocoridae), any of some 100 species of insects in the true bug order, Heteroptera, that resemble tiny frogs. They have short, broad bodies and protruding eyes and capture their prey by leaping upon it.

The big-eyed toad bug (Gelastocoris oculatus) occurs throughout North America, from Mexico into southern Canada. Its wide range of mottled browns, rusts, tans, grays, and blacks reflects its wide distribution in multiple habitats and substrates.

Gelastocoris oculatus, the big-eyed toad bug, is a species of toad bug in the family Gelastocoridae. It is found in Central America and North America. [1][2][3] Due to their coloration they can be difficult to find.

Toad Bugs not only look like toads, they leap like them, too. Found in wet and muddy habitats, Toad Bugs eat other insects and capture them by pouncing on them. They are well camouflaged and quite small, so finding one in nature may take effort and a keen eye.

Oct 9, 2023 · An online resource devoted to North American insects, spiders and their kin, offering identification, images, and information.

Nerthra is a genus of toad bugs in the family Gelastocoridae. There are at least 90 described species in Nerthra. [2] [1] [3] [4]

Description: These predatory bugs resemble small toads – about 8 mm in length. They are typically found in sand or mud on the moist shores of streams, marshes, and ponds. They are brown or gray in color and usually well-camouflaged against the substrate. Order: Hemiptera, suborder Heteroptera.

Toad bugs are about ¼ inch long and hunt pygmy mole crickets and similar sized prey by stalking close, jumping and grabbing the prey with those raptorial front legs and feeding on it with their piercing-sucking mouthparts.

The Gelastocoridae, known as toad bugs, are a small family of semi-aquatic insects recognized for their frog-like appearance and hopping behavior. They primarily inhabit moist environments such as the edges of streams and ponds, where they blend in seamlessly with their surroundings.