Nairobi Eye Beetle vs Crimson Saltflat Tiger Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Nairobi Eye Beetle | Crimson Saltflat Tiger Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paederus sabaeus | Cicindela theatina |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Cicindelidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 11-13 mm |
| Habitat | Indoors | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa | Colorado, United States |
| 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.
Crimson Saltflat Tiger Beetle
A rare tiger beetle endemic to the salt flats of southern Colorado. It has a distinctive dark reddish-brown coloration with faint white markings.
Did You Know?
It was only described as a distinct species in 2002 and is known from just a handful of sites.