Atemeles Ant Guest Beetle vs Tree Weta
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Atemeles Ant Guest Beetle | Tree Weta |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lomechusoides strumosus | Hemideina thoracica |
| Order | Coleoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Anostostomatidae |
| Size | 5-6 mm | 40-60 mm body length |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Parasites | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Central Europe | Oceania |
| 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.
Tree Weta
A common weta species found throughout the North Island of New Zealand. It shelters in tree holes during the day and forages for food at night.
Did You Know?
Tree weta can survive being frozen solid; their blood contains special proteins that prevent ice crystals from damaging their cells.