Rat Flea vs Red-tipped Flower Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rat Flea | Red-tipped Flower Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xenopsylla brasiliensis | Malachius bipustulatus |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Pulicidae | Melyridae |
| Size | 1.5-2.5 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Africa, South America, India | Europe |
| 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.
Red-tipped Flower Beetle
A small metallic green beetle with bright red tips on each elytron. Males can evert orange vesicles from their thorax as a display.
Did You Know?
Males produce pheromone-laden secretions from thoracic vesicles that females lick during courtship.