Kudzu Bug vs Petroleum Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Kudzu Bug | Petroleum Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megacopta cribraria | Helaeomyia petrolei |
| Order | Coleoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Plataspidae | Ephydridae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 5 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | East Asia; invasive in southeastern US | North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Kudzu Bug
A small, olive-green, globular beetle that feeds on kudzu and soybeans. It was first detected in North America in 2009.
Did You Know?
It emits a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed, similar to stink bugs.
Petroleum Fly
The only insect whose larvae develop in crude petroleum. Found in natural oil seeps in California, including the La Brea Tar Pits. Larvae eat insects trapped in the oil.
Did You Know?
This is the only animal on Earth that develops in crude oil — a substance toxic to virtually all other life. Its larvae swim through petroleum and breathe through snorkel-like tubes.