European Fire Ant vs Saw-toothed Grain Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute European Fire Ant Saw-toothed Grain Beetle
Scientific Name Myrmica rubra Oryzaephilus surinamensis
Order Hymenoptera Coleoptera
Family Formicidae Silvanidae
Size 4-5 mm 2.5-3.5 mm
Habitat Meadows Gardens
Diet Seed Feeders Seed Feeders
Regions Europe, Northeastern North America Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

European Fire Ant

A small reddish ant capable of delivering a noticeable sting, common across European meadows. It has recently invaded parts of northeastern North America where it forms dense populations.

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Did You Know?

It is the primary host ant for the endangered large blue butterfly, whose larvae mimic ant grubs to infiltrate colonies.

Saw-toothed Grain Beetle

A slender brown beetle with six tooth-like projections on each side of the thorax. It is a cosmopolitan pest of processed grain products and dried foods.

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Did You Know?

Its flat body allows it to squeeze through incredibly narrow gaps in food packaging.