European Oil Bee vs Yam Hawk Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Oil Bee | Yam Hawk Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macropis europaea | Theretra oldenlandiae |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Melittidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 9-12 mm | 50-65 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
European Oil Bee
One of only two Northern Hemisphere bees that collect floral oils instead of nectar as a food provision. It collects oils from yellow loosestrife flowers.
Did You Know?
It mixes collected floral oil with pollen to create a waterproof, long-lasting larval food that resists mold in its damp underground nests.
Yam Hawk Moth
A widespread tropical hawk moth with olive-brown forewings and contrasting dark and light lateral body stripes. Its larvae feed on a wide variety of plants including yams and grape vines.
Did You Know?
This species is one of the most polyphagous hawk moths, with larvae recorded feeding on plants from more than a dozen different families.