Army Ant Rove Beetle vs Spiny Flower Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Army Ant Rove Beetle | Spiny Flower Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ecitomorpha arachnoides | Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii |
| Order | Coleoptera | Mantodea |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Hymenopodidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 30-50 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Central America, South America | Africa |
| 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.
Spiny Flower Mantis
Small, colorful mantis with spectacular eye-like patterns on its wings displayed in a threat pose. White and green body with pink and yellow highlights. Native to southern Africa.
Did You Know?
The spiny flower mantis has eye-like spiral patterns on its wings — when threatened, it raises them in a dramatic display that makes it look much larger and more intimidating.