Shining Flea Beetle vs Giant Dung Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Shining Flea Beetle | Giant Dung Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Asphaera lustrans | Helictopleurus giganteus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Chrysomelidae | Scarabaeidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 20-30 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Mountains |
| Diet | Herbivores | Dung Feeders |
| Regions | Central and South America | Madagascar |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Shining Flea Beetle
A relatively large, metallic blue-green flea beetle with reddish-orange femora. It is one of the larger and more colorful alticines found in the Neotropics.
Did You Know?
Despite its relatively large size, it retains the powerful jumping ability characteristic of flea beetles, launching itself several centimeters when disturbed.
Giant Dung Beetle
The largest member of the endemic Helictopleurus genus, with a robust body and prominent cephalic horns in males. Its dark brown to black exoskeleton is heavily sculptured with ridges and punctures.
Did You Know?
Unlike African dung beetles that rely on large mammal dung, this species evolved to specialize on lemur droppings found on the forest floor.