Larger Elm Leaf Beetle vs Binodis Dung Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Larger Elm Leaf Beetle Binodis Dung Beetle
Scientific Name Monocesta coryli Onthophagus binodis
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Scarabaeidae
Size 12-16 mm 6-10 mm
Habitat Woodlands Farmland
Diet Herbivores Dung Feeders
Regions Eastern North America Southern Africa, introduced to Australia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Larger Elm Leaf Beetle

A robust, bright yellowish-orange beetle with darker wing tips that feeds on a variety of deciduous trees. When handled, it can release a blistering chemical secretion.

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Did You Know?

Its hemolymph contains cantharidin-like compounds that can cause skin blisters on contact, an unusual defense for a leaf beetle.

Binodis Dung Beetle

A small, brown-black tunneling dung beetle with two small nodules on the male head. It was introduced to Australia from southern Africa. It is well adapted to Mediterranean climates with seasonal activity.

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Did You Know?

It is most active during the cooler autumn and spring months, complementing summer-active introduced species.