Scarlet Skimmer vs Pictured Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Scarlet Skimmer | Pictured Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Crocothemis erythraea | Paederus littoralis |
| Order | Odonata | Coleoptera |
| Family | Libellulidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 52-60 mm wingspan | 7-10mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Wetlands |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Africa, Asia | Europe, Asia, Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Scarlet Skimmer
A medium-sized dragonfly where males are entirely vivid scarlet red, including the veins of the wings. It is one of the most recognizable dragonflies in the Old World.
Did You Know?
The scarlet skimmer has been expanding rapidly into northern Europe, establishing breeding populations in countries where it was previously unknown.
Pictured Rove Beetle
A slender black and orange rove beetle with short elytra exposing most of its abdomen. It contains the toxin pederin which causes severe skin blisters.
Did You Know?
Pederin produced by symbiotic bacteria in the beetle is more potent drop for drop than cobra venom but is only released when the beetle is crushed on skin.