Smooth Hister Beetle vs Pharaoh Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Smooth Hister Beetle Pharaoh Ant
Scientific Name Margarinotus striola Monomorium pharaonis
Order Coleoptera Hymenoptera
Family Histeridae Formicidae
Size 4-6 mm 1.5-2 mm
Habitat Indoors Indoors
Diet Dung Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North Africa Worldwide (indoors)
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Smooth Hister Beetle

A compact, highly polished black beetle with fine elytral striations. It is one of the most common dung-dwelling hister beetles in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its almost mirror-like surface is so smooth that dung and debris slide off its body, keeping it permanently clean.

Pharaoh Ant

A tiny tropical ant that has become a major indoor pest in heated buildings worldwide. Colonies reproduce by budding, making them extremely difficult to eradicate.

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Did You Know?

They are a serious pest in hospitals because they can transmit pathogens by entering IV lines, wounds, and sterile packaging.