African Net-winged Beetle vs Stinking Rove Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Net-winged Beetle Stinking Rove Beetle
Scientific Name Lycus trabeatus Ocypus nero
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Lycidae Staphylinidae
Size 15-30 mm 16-25 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Omnivores
Regions East Africa, Southern Africa Southern Europe, Mediterranean
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

African Net-winged Beetle

A brightly orange-red beetle with distinctive net-like wing venation and broad expanded elytra. It is toxic and serves as a model for many mimicry complexes.

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Did You Know?

Several unrelated beetle and moth species mimic its bright warning coloration to gain protection from predators.

Stinking Rove Beetle

A jet-black rove beetle with finely punctured elytra and a broad head. It emits a foul-smelling secretion when disturbed.

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Did You Know?

Its defensive odour is produced by abdominal glands and is potent enough to deter birds and small mammals.