African Paper Wasp vs Delta Green Ground Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Paper Wasp Delta Green Ground Beetle
Scientific Name Belonogaster juncea Elaphrus viridis
Order Hymenoptera Coleoptera
Family Vespidae Carabidae
Size 15-22 mm 0.6-0.8 cm
Habitat Underground Wetlands
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Southern Africa, East Africa United States
Conservation Least Concern Endangered

African Paper Wasp

A slender reddish-brown social wasp that builds small open paper nests under eaves and branches. It preys on caterpillars to feed its larvae.

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Did You Know?

They are considered beneficial by gardeners because a single colony can destroy hundreds of caterpillar pests per week.

Delta Green Ground Beetle

A small metallic green ground beetle found only near vernal pools in Solano County, California. It is threatened by urban development and habitat loss.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the rarest beetles in North America, known from fewer than five locations.