Cape Spoonwing vs Rosemary Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Cape Spoonwing Rosemary Beetle
Scientific Name Palmipenna aeoleoptera Chrysolina americana
Order Neuroptera Coleoptera
Family Nemopteridae Chrysomelidae
Size 30-40 mm wingspan (forewings) 5-8mm
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Predators Herbivores
Regions South Africa Europe, Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Cape Spoonwing

A South African nemopterid with broad, paddle-shaped hindwings. One of the most spectacular insects in the Western Cape fynbos.

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Did You Know?

Its broad paddle hindwings are wider than those of any other nemopterid, making it instantly recognizable.

Rosemary Beetle

A small oval beetle with metallic green and purple stripes on its elytra. Despite its name, it originates from southern Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its scientific name americana was given in error as the species is native to southern Europe and North Africa.