Nairobi Eye Beetle vs Cretan Hawker
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Nairobi Eye Beetle | Cretan Hawker |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paederus sabaeus | Boyeria cretensis |
| Order | Coleoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 60-70 mm body |
| Habitat | Indoors | Mountains |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa | Crete, Greece |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
Nairobi Eye Beetle
A small, brightly colored rove beetle with an orange and black body that produces pederin, a potent blistering toxin. Outbreaks near human habitation cause painful dermatitis known as Nairobi eye.
Did You Know?
Pederin, the toxin in its hemolymph, is 12 times more potent than cobra venom drop for drop and is being researched as an anti-cancer compound.
Cretan Hawker
A dragonfly endemic to the island of Crete, found only along a few shaded mountain streams. One of Europe's most range-restricted dragonflies. Threatened by water extraction.
Did You Know?
Found nowhere else on Earth except a few mountain streams on the island of Crete.