Nairobi Eye Beetle vs Tobacco Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Nairobi Eye Beetle | Tobacco Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paederus sabaeus | Ephestia elutella |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Pyralidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 8-11 mm body; 14-20 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Indoors | Indoors |
| Diet | Predators | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa | Worldwide in temperate and subtropical regions |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Tobacco Moth
A small greyish-brown moth that primarily infests stored tobacco but also attacks cocoa, cereals, and dried fruits. It is cold-tolerant and problematic in temperate warehouse environments.
Did You Know?
It is more cold-hardy than most stored product moths and can complete development at temperatures as low as 15 degrees Celsius.