Nettle-tap Flea Beetle vs Valley Jerusalem Cricket

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Nettle-tap Flea Beetle Valley Jerusalem Cricket
Scientific Name Longitarsus nasturtii Stenopelmatus pictus
Order Coleoptera Orthoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Stenopelmatidae
Size 1.5-2 mm 30-50 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Deserts & Drylands
Diet Root Feeders Root Feeders
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Valley Jerusalem Cricket

A boldly banded Jerusalem cricket found in the arid valleys of California. Its large jaws can deliver a painful but harmless bite.

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Did You Know?

Despite its common name, it is neither from Jerusalem nor a true cricket.