Nettle-tap Flea Beetle vs Brazilian Headlight Firefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Nettle-tap Flea Beetle Brazilian Headlight Firefly
Scientific Name Longitarsus nasturtii Pyrearinus termitilluminans
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Lampyridae
Size 1.5-2 mm 15-20 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Woodlands
Diet Root Feeders Predators
Regions Europe South America
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Nettle-tap Flea Beetle

A tiny yellowish-brown flea beetle found on watercress and other crucifers in damp habitats. Larvae mine in plant roots. Can be a minor pest of commercial watercress.

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Did You Know?

Commercially grown watercress can be damaged by this beetle, which is nearly invisible to the naked eye.

Brazilian Headlight Firefly

A unique click beetle relative whose bioluminescent larvae inhabit termite mounds in the Brazilian cerrado. The glowing mounds are a famous natural spectacle.

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Did You Know?

Termite mounds dotted with hundreds of glowing larvae resemble miniature cities at night and are a famous sight in Emas National Park.