Mexican Firefly vs Golden-tabbed Robber Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mexican Firefly | Golden-tabbed Robber Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Photinus mexicanus | Choerades marginatus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Lampyridae | Asilidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 15-22mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | North America, Central America, Mexico | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mexican Firefly
A medium-sized firefly from Mexico and Central America with a dark body and yellowish-red pronotum. It produces a yellow-green flash in subtropical and tropical habitats.
Did You Know?
The firefly spectacle at Nanacamilpa in Tlaxcala, Mexico, where millions synchronize their flashes, involves closely related Photinus species.
Golden-tabbed Robber Fly
A large bristly brown robber fly with golden hair tufts that ambushes prey from sunny perches on logs.
Did You Know?
Sits motionless on sun-warmed logs waiting for insects to fly past, then launches with explosive speed to intercept.