Kaikoura Giant Weta vs Maltese Freshwater Crab Spider Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Kaikoura Giant Weta | Maltese Freshwater Crab Spider Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Deinacrida parva | Akis spinosa |
| Order | Orthoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Tenebrionidae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 18-25 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - Kaikoura Range) | Malta, Mediterranean Islands |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Not Evaluated |
Kaikoura Giant Weta
One of the smaller species of giant weta, endemic to the Seaward Kaikoura Range in the South Island of New Zealand. Despite its name, it is only giant relative to most insects. It inhabits alpine herbfields and scrub near the treeline.
Did You Know?
Despite the species name 'parva' meaning small, this weta still dwarfs most European and North American orthopterans.
Maltese Freshwater Crab Spider Beetle
A spiny darkling beetle found on Malta and other Mediterranean islands. It has prominent ridges and spines along its elytra.
Did You Know?
Its spiny armor and habit of playing dead make it unappealing to most predators.