Brazilian Cave Springtail vs Mexican Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Brazilian Cave Springtail Mexican Antlion
Scientific Name Trogolaphysa aelleni Vella americana
Order Collembola Neuroptera
Family Paronellidae Myrmeleontidae
Size 1-2 mm 65-85 mm wingspan
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Deserts & Drylands
Diet Detritivores Predators
Regions Brazil Southwestern United States, Mexico
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Brazilian Cave Springtail

A troglomorphic springtail from caves in the Brazilian semiarid region. It has elongated appendages and reduced pigmentation.

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Did You Know?

Many Brazilian cave springtails are known from a single cave system each.

Mexican Antlion

A robust antlion found across the southern United States and Mexico. Recognized by its large size and boldly marked forewings.

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Did You Know?

Adults are surprisingly strong fliers for antlions and actively hunt small moths at dusk.