Carolina Metallic Tiger Beetle vs Kudzu Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Carolina Metallic Tiger Beetle | Kudzu Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tetracha carolina | Megacopta cribraria |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Cicindelidae | Plataspidae |
| Size | 16-21 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Southeastern United States from Texas to the Carolinas | East Asia; invasive in southeastern US |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Carolina Metallic Tiger Beetle
A large nocturnal tiger beetle with dark metallic green elytra and a bright green thorax. It is most active on warm summer nights and is attracted to lights.
Did You Know?
Unlike most tiger beetles, it is primarily nocturnal and hunts by moonlight rather than sunlight.
Kudzu Bug
A small, olive-green, globular beetle that feeds on kudzu and soybeans. It was first detected in North America in 2009.
Did You Know?
It emits a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed, similar to stink bugs.