Elephant Louse vs Spanish Fly Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Elephant Louse | Spanish Fly Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Haematomyzus elephantis | Berberomeloe majalis |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Haematomyzidae | Meloidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 30-70mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Asia, Africa | Europe, Africa |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Vulnerable |
Elephant Louse
A highly specialized louse found only on elephants, with piercing mouthparts adapted to penetrate the thick pachyderm skin. It is the sole member of its family.
Did You Know?
The elephant louse is so specialized that it represents an entire family of its own, having co-evolved with elephants for millions of years.
Spanish Fly Beetle
A huge wingless blister beetle with a massively swollen red and black banded abdomen. The largest European meloid.
Did You Know?
One of the largest beetle species in Europe with a body so heavy it resembles a fat caterpillar more than a beetle.