Shore Rove Beetle vs Svalbard Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Shore Rove Beetle | Svalbard Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Philonthus quisquiliarius | Atheta islandica |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 2-3 mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Heathland |
| Diet | Detritivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Iceland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Greenland |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Shore Rove Beetle
A small metallic greenish rove beetle found along pond and river margins in marshy habitats. Hunts small invertebrates in wet leaf litter and debris.
Did You Know?
The metallic green sheen is unusual among European Philonthus species, most of which are plain black.
Svalbard Rove Beetle
A tiny, dark brown rove beetle found in some of the most northerly terrestrial habitats on Earth. It shelters in bird nests and guano deposits where the microclimate is warmer. Adults are active predators of mites.
Did You Know?
This beetle survives in the High Arctic partly by living in seabird colonies where decomposing guano generates warmth.