Mustard Beetle vs Golden Dung Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mustard Beetle Golden Dung Fly
Scientific Name Phaedon cochleariae Scathophaga stercoraria
Order Coleoptera Diptera
Family Chrysomelidae Scathophagidae
Size 3-4 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Europe Europe, Asia, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mustard Beetle

A small metallic blue-black beetle that feeds on watercress, mustard and other crucifers. Both adults and larvae damage crops. Common in damp habitats near streams.

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Did You Know?

Commercial watercress growers regard this tiny beetle as one of their most persistent pest problems.

Golden Dung Fly

A common furry yellow fly that gathers on fresh cow dung to mate and hunt.

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Did You Know?

Males are fiercely competitive and wrestle each other for access to females on dung pats.