Pitted Ambrosia Beetle vs Blue-winged Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pitted Ambrosia Beetle | Blue-winged Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cnesinus strigicollis | Platydracus chalcocephalus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Curculionidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 2-3mm | 12-17 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Grasslands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | North America, South America | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Pitted Ambrosia Beetle
A tiny dark brown bark beetle that cultivates fungal gardens inside its tunnels. It introduces ambrosia fungi into the wood which it and its larvae eat.
Did You Know?
It is one of many beetle species that practice true agriculture cultivating fungal crops inside tree tunnels for food.
Blue-winged Rove Beetle
A handsome rove beetle with a metallic blue-green head and pronotum contrasting with brown elytra. It is found in wooded areas and is a capable flier attracted to lights at night.
Did You Know?
The metallic coloration of its head is produced by nanostructures in the cuticle that interfere with light, similar to how a soap bubble creates colors.