Neotropical Rove Beetle vs Small Fan-footed Wave

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Neotropical Rove Beetle Small Fan-footed Wave
Scientific Name Xanthopygus cognatus Idaea biselata
Order Coleoptera Lepidoptera
Family Staphylinidae Geometridae
Size 12-18 mm 20-24 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Fruit Feeders Herbivores
Regions Central and South America, Brazil to Mexico Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Neotropical Rove Beetle

A large, strikingly colored rove beetle with a bright orange pronotum contrasting with black elytra and head. It is one of the most conspicuous staphylinids in the Neotropical region.

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Did You Know?

The bright orange and black coloration of this beetle is thought to be aposematic, warning predators of its unpalatable defensive secretions.

Small Fan-footed Wave

A small, delicate moth with pale buff wings and fine dark cross-lines. Common in deciduous woodland. Larvae feed on dead leaves on the woodland floor.

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Did You Know?

Named for the male's fan-shaped front legs that are displayed during courtship.