Goldenrod Soldier Beetle vs Red Locust

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goldenrod Soldier Beetle Red Locust
Scientific Name Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus Nomadacris septemfasciata
Order Coleoptera Orthoptera
Family Cantharidae Acrididae
Size 9-12 mm 50-70 mm
Habitat Grasslands Grasslands
Diet Nectar Feeders Omnivores
Regions Eastern North America Southern Africa, Central Africa, East Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Goldenrod Soldier Beetle

A familiar autumn beetle of eastern North America, commonly seen in large numbers on goldenrod flowers. Its yellow-and-black pattern mimics that of wasps.

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Did You Know?

It produces defensive compounds called dihydromatricaria acids that deter ants and other predators.

Red Locust

A large brown and red locust that swarms periodically from outbreak areas in Central and Southern Africa. It has distinctive red hindwings visible in flight.

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Did You Know?

The International Red Locust Control Organization was created specifically to monitor and prevent outbreaks of this species.