Goat Biting Louse vs Harris's Diving Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goat Biting Louse Harris's Diving Beetle
Scientific Name Bovicola caprae Dytiscus harrisii
Order Phthiraptera Coleoptera
Family Trichodectidae Dytiscidae
Size 1-2 mm 33-40 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Worldwide North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Goat Biting Louse

A chewing louse infesting domestic goats worldwide. It feeds on skin flakes and causes intense itching and coat damage.

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Did You Know?

Angora goats are particularly susceptible because their long mohair provides an ideal habitat for these lice.

Harris's Diving Beetle

A large North American diving beetle found in cold, clear lakes and bog ponds. It is one of the largest diving beetles on the continent.

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Did You Know?

It can remain submerged for extended periods by trapping air under its elytra, which it uses like an external lung.