Large-headed Resin Bee vs Spanish Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Large-headed Resin Bee | Spanish Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heriades truncorum | Lytta vesicatoria |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Megachilidae | Meloidae |
| Size | 6-8 mm | 10-22mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Orchards |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Large-headed Resin Bee
A tiny black resin bee with a disproportionately large head that nests in beetle holes and hollow stems. It uses plant resin to construct partitions between brood cells.
Did You Know?
Its oversized head allows it to perfectly plug the entrance of its narrow nest cavity like a living door.
Spanish Fly
A slender, metallic green blister beetle with soft elytra. It produces cantharidin, a potent blistering agent, as a chemical defense.
Did You Know?
Cantharidin from this beetle has been used in medicine for centuries but it is extremely toxic and can be lethal if ingested.