Elephant Louse vs Trimmer's Mining Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Elephant Louse | Trimmer's Mining Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Haematomyzus elephantis | Andrena trimmerana |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Haematomyzidae | Andrenidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 10-12 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Asia, Africa | Europe |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
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.
Trimmer's Mining Bee
A widespread spring mining bee with brownish-grey fur and a distinctive tooth on the hind femur. It forages on a wide range of early-blooming flowers.
Did You Know?
The small femoral tooth on its hind leg distinguishes it from nearly all other European Andrena species.