Robber Fly vs Dark Soldier Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Robber Fly | Dark Soldier Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Promachus rufipes | Cantharis obscura |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Asilidae | Cantharidae |
| Size | 15-30 mm | 9-13 mm |
| Habitat | Meadows | Meadows |
| Diet | Predators | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | North America, Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Robber Fly
Aggressive aerial predators that catch other insects in flight. Inject prey with neurotoxic saliva that paralyzes and liquefies internal organs for consumption.
Did You Know?
Robber flies are such efficient aerial predators that they have been recorded catching dragonflies, wasps, and even other robber flies in mid-air.
Dark Soldier Beetle
A dark-colored European soldier beetle often found on umbelliferous flowers. Its entirely dark elytra distinguish it from the more colorful soldier beetle species.
Did You Know?
Larvae are velvety black and hunt small invertebrates among leaf litter throughout the winter months.