Goldenrod Soldier Beetle vs Spotted Asparagus Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goldenrod Soldier Beetle Spotted Asparagus Beetle
Scientific Name Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus Crioceris duodecimpunctata
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Cantharidae Chrysomelidae
Size 9-12 mm 6-7 mm
Habitat Grasslands Farmland
Diet Nectar Feeders Herbivores
Regions Eastern North America Europe, introduced to North America
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

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.

Spotted Asparagus Beetle

A reddish-orange beetle with twelve black spots on its elytra. It is a pest of asparagus, with larvae feeding inside the berries.

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Did You Know?

Unlike its relative the common asparagus beetle, its larvae feed inside the berries rather than on stems.