Globular Tachinid vs Checkered Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Globular Tachinid Checkered Beetle
Scientific Name Gymnosoma rotundatum Trichodes apiarius
Order Diptera Coleoptera
Family Tachinidae Cleridae
Size 6-8 mm 9-16 mm
Habitat Heathland Underground
Diet Parasites Parasites
Regions Europe Europe, North Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Globular Tachinid

A distinctive round-bodied parasitic fly colored bright orange-red with black markings. Parasitizes shieldbugs. One of the most easily recognized tachinid flies.

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Did You Know?

The unusually round, bright orange body makes this one of the most recognizable parasitic flies.

Checkered Beetle

A brightly colored red and blue beetle often found on flowers. Its larvae are parasites of solitary bee nests.

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Did You Know?

Females lay eggs near bee nests so larvae can invade and consume the bee brood.