Australian Large-headed Bee vs Tyrannophasma gladiator

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Australian Large-headed Bee Tyrannophasma gladiator
Scientific Name Stenotritus greavesi Tyrannophasma gladiator
Order Hymenoptera Mantophasmatodea
Family Stenotritidae Mantophasmatidae
Size 12-16 mm 20-25 mm
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Nectar Feeders Predators
Regions Australia Africa
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Australian Large-headed Bee

A robust, fast-flying bee endemic to Australia with a disproportionately large head and powerful mandibles. It belongs to the most primitive extant family of bees.

💡

Did You Know?

Stenotritidae is the smallest bee family in the world, containing only 21 species all restricted to Australia.

Tyrannophasma gladiator

A South African heelwalker named for its fierce predatory habits. Males drum their abdomens on plant stems to communicate with potential mates.

💡

Did You Know?

Males and females perform vibrational duets through the plant substrate before mating, a behavior detected only by sensitive instruments.