Metallic Hister Beetle vs Nettle-tap Flea Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Metallic Hister Beetle Nettle-tap Flea Beetle
Scientific Name Saprinus semistriatus Longitarsus nasturtii
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Histeridae Chrysomelidae
Size 3-5 mm 1.5-2 mm
Habitat Farmland Rivers & Streams
Diet Carrion Feeders Root Feeders
Regions Europe, North Africa, Western Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Metallic Hister Beetle

A small beetle with a metallic blue-green sheen found on carrion and sun-dried carcasses. It is frequently used in forensic entomology studies.

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Did You Know?

Its predictable arrival timeline on corpses makes it a valuable indicator for forensic investigators estimating time since death.

Nettle-tap Flea Beetle

A tiny yellowish-brown flea beetle found on watercress and other crucifers in damp habitats. Larvae mine in plant roots. Can be a minor pest of commercial watercress.

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Did You Know?

Commercially grown watercress can be damaged by this beetle, which is nearly invisible to the naked eye.