Marsyas Dung Beetle vs Brazilian Owlfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Marsyas Dung Beetle Brazilian Owlfly
Scientific Name Helictopleurus marsyas Cordulecerus alopecinus
Order Coleoptera Neuroptera
Family Scarabaeidae Ascalaphidae
Size 10-15 mm 40-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Dung Feeders Predators
Regions Madagascar Brazil, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Marsyas Dung Beetle

A compact, dark-bodied dung beetle that has transitioned from forest to open habitats. It has a smooth, rounded pronotum and finely striated elytra.

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Did You Know?

Genetic studies show this species diverged from its forest-dwelling relatives relatively recently, demonstrating rapid adaptation to human-altered landscapes.

Brazilian Owlfly

A neotropical owlfly with bushy-tipped antennae found in South American cerrado and forest edges. Adults are crepuscular fliers.

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Did You Know?

Its furry antenna tips are unique among owlflies and give the genus its name meaning 'fox-like.'