African Hide Beetle vs Desert Stink Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Hide Beetle Desert Stink Bug
Scientific Name Trox sabulosus Chlorochroa ligata
Order Coleoptera Hemiptera
Family Trogidae Pentatomidae
Size 7-11 mm 12-16 mm
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Deserts & Drylands
Diet Dung Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Europe, North Africa North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

African Hide Beetle

A small, rough-textured beetle covered in soil particles and debris that provide excellent camouflage. Its elytra have rows of tubercles that trap dirt. It feeds on dried animal remains in advanced stages of decomposition.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, hide beetles play dead and are nearly impossible to spot due to the dirt encrusted on their bodies.

Desert Stink Bug

A green shield bug with a distinctive orange or red border found in arid western North America. It feeds on a variety of desert shrubs and weeds.

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Did You Know?

It releases a pungent chemical from thoracic glands that smells like cilantro to some people.