Flower Rove Beetle vs Elm Seed Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Flower Rove Beetle Elm Seed Bug
Scientific Name Eusphalerum luteum Arocatus melanocephalus
Order Coleoptera Hemiptera
Family Staphylinidae Lygaeidae
Size 2-4 mm 6-7 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Pollen Feeders Seed Feeders
Regions Europe, Western Asia Europe (native), Northwestern North America (invasive)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Flower Rove Beetle

A small, yellowish omaline rove beetle that is unusual among staphylinids for being a regular flower visitor. It feeds on pollen and nectar and may play a role in pollination.

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Did You Know?

This is one of the few rove beetles that regularly visits flowers, and pollen grains found on its body suggest it may be an accidental pollinator.

Elm Seed Bug

A small seed bug native to southern Europe that has become an invasive nuisance pest in the northwestern United States. It aggregates in enormous numbers on and inside buildings in summer and fall.

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Did You Know?

Thousands can invade a single home seeking shelter, producing a foul odor when disturbed or crushed.