Cranberry Blue vs Orchid Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cranberry Blue | Orchid Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Plebejus optilete | Euglossa imperialis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Apidae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | 12-28 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Siberia, subarctic Japan | Central America, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cranberry Blue
A small butterfly with violet-blue upperwings in males and dark brown in females. The hindwing underside has a diagnostic metallic silver spot. It frequents boggy habitats where its larval foodplant cranberry grows.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar is tended by ants which protect it from parasitoids in exchange for sweet honeydew secretions.
Orchid Bee
Dazzling metallic-colored bees that collect aromatic compounds from orchids. Males use collected scents to attract females. Key pollinators of many tropical orchid species.
Did You Know?
Male orchid bees collect fragrances from orchids and store them in special hind leg pouches — each male creates a unique perfume blend to attract females.