Saharan Antlion vs African Hide Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Saharan Antlion African Hide Beetle
Scientific Name Neuroleon nemausiensis Trox sabulosus
Order Neuroptera Coleoptera
Family Myrmeleontidae Trogidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 7-11 mm
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Dung Feeders
Regions Mediterranean Basin, North Africa Europe, North Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Saharan Antlion

A slender antlion found across the Mediterranean and North Africa. Adults fly at dusk and are attracted to lights in arid regions.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most commonly encountered antlions at light traps around the Mediterranean.

African Hide Beetle

A small, rough-textured beetle covered in soil particles and debris that provide excellent camouflage. Its elytra have rows of tubercles that trap dirt. It feeds on dried animal remains in advanced stages of decomposition.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, hide beetles play dead and are nearly impossible to spot due to the dirt encrusted on their bodies.