Atemeles Ant Guest Beetle vs Blue-winged Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Atemeles Ant Guest Beetle | Blue-winged Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lomechusoides strumosus | Platydracus chalcocephalus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 5-6 mm | 12-17 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Parasites | Predators |
| Regions | Central Europe | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Atemeles Ant Guest Beetle
A parasitic rove beetle that lives in ant nests, switching between Formica and Myrmica host species seasonally. Its larvae are raised by ants alongside their own brood.
Did You Know?
It migrates between two different ant species each year, overwintering with one and breeding with another.
Blue-winged Rove Beetle
A handsome rove beetle with a metallic blue-green head and pronotum contrasting with brown elytra. It is found in wooded areas and is a capable flier attracted to lights at night.
Did You Know?
The metallic coloration of its head is produced by nanostructures in the cuticle that interfere with light, similar to how a soap bubble creates colors.