Giant Swallowtail of the Andes vs Tansy Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Swallowtail of the Andes | Tansy Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Papilio thoas | Chrysolina graminis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 110-140 mm wingspan | 7-11mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia) | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
Giant Swallowtail of the Andes
One of the largest swallowtail butterflies in South America, with bold yellow and black striped wings and long tail streamers. It is a powerful flier that ranges from sea level to over 2000 m in the Andes. Larvae mimic bird droppings as a defense mechanism.
Did You Know?
When threatened, the caterpillar everts a bright red forked organ called an osmeterium from behind its head, releasing a foul-smelling chemical.
Tansy Beetle
A stunning metallic green and copper beetle covered in tiny pits. It is one of the rarest beetles in Britain.
Did You Know?
In the UK it survives in only a small stretch along the River Ouse near York making it one of Britains most localized insects.