Malachite Butterfly vs Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Malachite Butterfly | Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Siproeta stelenes | Megachile rotundata |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Megachilidae |
| Size | Wingspan 85-100mm | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America, South America | North America, Europe, introduced to other regions |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Malachite Butterfly
A large butterfly with striking black and brilliant malachite green patterning on both wing surfaces. It has a slow graceful flight.
Did You Know?
Unlike most butterflies it feeds primarily on rotting fruit and bird droppings rather than flower nectar.
Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee
A small solitary bee that cuts precise circular pieces from leaves to construct nest cells. It is the most important managed pollinator of alfalfa seed crops in North America.
Did You Know?
Alfalfa seed yields increased up to 1,000% when this bee was introduced as a managed pollinator.