Giant Scarites vs Small Milkweed Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Scarites | Small Milkweed Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Scarites gigas | Lygaeus kalmii |
| Order | Coleoptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Carabidae | Lygaeidae |
| Size | 30-45 mm | 10-12 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Grasslands |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Mediterranean region (southern Europe, North Africa) | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Giant Scarites
One of the largest burrowing ground beetles, entirely shiny black with a massive head and powerful toothed mandibles. It is a formidable nocturnal predator of the Mediterranean region.
Did You Know?
It digs extensive burrow systems in sandy soil with its powerful forelegs and can be found guarding the entrance to its burrow like a miniature predator at its den.
Small Milkweed Bug
A boldly patterned red-and-black seed bug that feeds on milkweed seeds and sequesters toxic cardiac glycosides. Its warning coloration advertises its chemical defense to predators.
Did You Know?
It stores milkweed toxins in its body, making it taste terrible to birds and other predators that try to eat it.