Patagonian Tiger Beetle vs Springbok Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Patagonian Tiger Beetle | Springbok Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cicindela patagonika | Miomantis caffra |
| Order | Coleoptera | Mantodea |
| Family | Cicindelidae | Mantidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 30-50mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | South America (Argentina - Patagonia, Chile) | Africa, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Patagonian Tiger Beetle
A fast-running predatory beetle adapted to the harsh steppe environment of Patagonia. It has a dark metallic body with pale markings on the elytra and large prominent eyes for tracking prey. It is one of the fastest running insects relative to body size.
Did You Know?
It runs so fast that it temporarily goes blind during pursuit, having to stop and re-orient before resuming the chase.
Springbok Mantis
A small bright green mantis native to southern Africa that has become invasive in New Zealand. Females are notorious for always cannibalizing males during mating. Males approach females with extreme caution.
Did You Know?
Female sexual cannibalism is nearly universal in this species, with males being eaten during mating over 60% of the time.