Army Ant Rove Beetle vs Flea Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Army Ant Rove Beetle | Flea Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ecitomorpha arachnoides | Altica oleracea |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 3-5 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Central America, South America | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Army Ant Rove Beetle
An extraordinary myrmecophilous rove beetle whose body remarkably mimics the shape of its host army ants. It lives exclusively among New World army ant colonies, marching with them on raids.
Did You Know?
Its body shape so closely mimics that of its host ant that early entomologists initially classified it as an ant rather than a beetle.
Flea Beetle
Tiny jumping beetles with enlarged hind femora for leaping. Named for their flea-like jumping ability. Many species are metallic blue, green, or bronze.
Did You Know?
Flea beetles can jump 100 times their body length in a single leap — they use an elastic protein pad in their hind legs that stores and releases energy like a catapult.