Dinosaur Ant vs Indian Antlion
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dinosaur Ant | Indian Antlion |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nothomyrmecia macrops | Myrmecaelurus trigrammus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Myrmeleontidae |
| Size | 10-15 mm | 40-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Oceania | India, Middle East, Central Asia |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Dinosaur Ant
Considered the most primitive living ant, often called a living fossil. Discovered in 1931 and then lost for 46 years until rediscovered in 1977 in South Australia.
Did You Know?
This ant was lost to science for 46 years after its discovery — rediscovered by pure luck when an entomologist pulled over to sleep at the roadside where they happened to live.
Indian Antlion
A medium-sized antlion widespread across southern Asia and the Middle East. Often encountered in sandy soils near human settlements.
Did You Know?
It ranges from the Mediterranean to India, making it one of the most widespread Old World antlions.