Cape Spoonwing vs Shining Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cape Spoonwing | Shining Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Palmipenna aeoleoptera | Quedius fuliginosus |
| Order | Neuroptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Nemopteridae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan (forewings) | 9-15 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | South Africa | Europe, Northern Asia |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Its broad paddle hindwings are wider than those of any other nemopterid, making it instantly recognizable.
Shining Rove Beetle
A sleek, shiny dark brown rove beetle with a smooth, mirror-like pronotum. It is one of the most common Quedius species in wet woodland habitats across Europe.
Did You Know?
The mirror-smooth pronotum of this beetle repels water so effectively that it can move through waterlogged habitats without getting wet.