Macropis Cuckoo Bee vs Polynesian Cicada

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Macropis Cuckoo Bee Polynesian Cicada
Scientific Name Epeoloides coecutiens Raiateana oulietea
Order Hymenoptera Hemiptera
Family Melittidae Cicadidae
Size 7-10 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Parasites Sap Feeders
Regions Europe, Eastern North America French Polynesia, Pacific Islands
Conservation Endangered Data Deficient

Macropis Cuckoo Bee

A rare cleptoparasitic bee that targets nests of Macropis oil-collecting bees. It was once thought extinct in North America before being rediscovered in Nova Scotia in 2002.

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Did You Know?

Its dramatic rediscovery in North America after decades of presumed extinction made international conservation news.

Polynesian Cicada

An island-endemic cicada found in French Polynesia with a slender dark body and clear wings. Its buzzing call can be heard across the volcanic island valleys.

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Did You Know?

Island cicadas like this one often evolve unique calls on each island, contributing to speciation across archipelagos.