Rat Flea vs Black Slip Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rat Flea | Black Slip Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xenopsylla brasiliensis | Pimpla instigator |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Pulicidae | Ichneumonidae |
| Size | 1.5-2.5 mm | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Africa, South America, India | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Rat Flea
A tropical rat flea found across Africa and South America that can transmit plague. It is second to the oriental rat flea in importance as a plague vector.
Did You Know?
Despite its name suggesting Brazilian origin, it is most commonly found on rats throughout sub-Saharan Africa.
Black Slip Wasp
A medium-sized black ichneumon wasp that parasitizes butterfly and moth pupae. Uses its ovipositor to penetrate through cocoons. A common and widespread species.
Did You Know?
Can drill its ovipositor through tough pupal cases and silk cocoons to reach the developing insect inside.