Desert Clastoptera vs Western Firefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Desert Clastoptera | Western Firefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Clastoptera arizonana | Microphotus angustus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Clastopteridae | Lampyridae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Desert Clastoptera
A tiny spittlebug found on desert shrubs in the American Southwest. Nymphs surround themselves with a frothy mass for moisture and protection.
Did You Know?
The frothy spittle covering its nymphs provides insulation from extreme desert temperatures.
Western Firefly
A rare western North American firefly with larviform females that glow. Males are winged but produce no light.
Did You Know?
It is one of very few firefly species found west of the Rocky Mountains, where most people believe fireflies do not exist.