Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach vs Synchronous Firefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach Synchronous Firefly
Scientific Name Periplaneta japonica Photinus carolinus
Order Blattodea Coleoptera
Family Blattidae Lampyridae
Size 25-35 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Woodlands Mountains
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Asia, North America (invasive) North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach

An invasive cockroach from Asia first found in New York City in 2012. Unlike other cockroach species, it can survive outdoors through freezing winters.

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Did You Know?

This is the only cockroach species in New York that can survive the citys harsh winters outdoors — it was first discovered on the High Line elevated park in Manhattan.

Synchronous Firefly

One of the few firefly species in North America that synchronizes its flashing patterns. Thousands flash in unison during mating season in the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Did You Know?

Their synchronized light displays in the Great Smoky Mountains attract thousands of visitors each year through a lottery system.