Powdered Fungus Beetle of Azores vs Nairobi Eye Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Powdered Fungus Beetle of Azores | Nairobi Eye Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tarphius floresensis | Paederus sabaeus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Zopheridae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 0.2-0.4 cm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Indoors |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Portugal | East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Powdered Fungus Beetle of Azores
A tiny beetle endemic to Flores Island in the Azores. It inhabits decaying wood in remnant laurel forests.
Did You Know?
The Azores archipelago has lost over 95% of its native forest, pushing many endemic beetles toward extinction.
Nairobi Eye Beetle
A small, brightly colored rove beetle with an orange and black body that produces pederin, a potent blistering toxin. Outbreaks near human habitation cause painful dermatitis known as Nairobi eye.
Did You Know?
Pederin, the toxin in its hemolymph, is 12 times more potent than cobra venom drop for drop and is being researched as an anti-cancer compound.