Maricopa Harvester Ant vs White-shouldered House Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Maricopa Harvester Ant | White-shouldered House Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pogonomyrmex maricopa | Endrosis sarcitrella |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Oecophoridae |
| Size | 6-10 mm | 15-21 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Indoors |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Cosmopolitan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Maricopa Harvester Ant
Produces the most toxic insect venom known — with an LD50 of 0.12 mg/kg in mice. Just 12 stings can deliver a lethal dose to a 2 kg mammal.
Did You Know?
The venom of this ant is 20 times more potent than honey bee venom — it is the most toxic insect venom ever measured, yet the ant is only stung-aggressive when defending its nest.
White-shouldered House Moth
A small greyish moth with a conspicuous white head and thorax that is common in buildings year-round. It is found worldwide as a minor household pest.
Did You Know?
It is one of the few moths that can breed continuously indoors throughout the year without a dormant phase.