Southern Mole Cricket vs Saharan Antlion
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Southern Mole Cricket | Saharan Antlion |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neoscapteriscus borellii | Neuroleon nemausiensis |
| Order | Orthoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Gryllotalpidae | Myrmeleontidae |
| Size | 25-35 mm | 40-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | South America (native), Southern United States (invasive), Australia (invasive) | Mediterranean Basin, North Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Southern Mole Cricket
A South American mole cricket that has become an invasive turf pest in the southern United States and Australia. It tunnels through soil near the surface, severing grass roots and leaving raised trails.
Did You Know?
It can fly strongly at night and is attracted to lights, which is how it colonized new areas after its accidental introduction.
Saharan Antlion
A slender antlion found across the Mediterranean and North Africa. Adults fly at dusk and are attracted to lights in arid regions.
Did You Know?
It is one of the most commonly encountered antlions at light traps around the Mediterranean.