Spanish Fly vs Bethany Beach Firefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Spanish Fly | Bethany Beach Firefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lytta vesicatoria | Photuris bethaniensis |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Meloidae | Lampyridae |
| Size | 10-22mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Wetlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Eastern United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Vulnerable |
Spanish Fly
A slender, metallic green blister beetle with soft elytra. It produces cantharidin, a potent blistering agent, as a chemical defense.
Did You Know?
Cantharidin from this beetle has been used in medicine for centuries but it is extremely toxic and can be lethal if ingested.
Bethany Beach Firefly
A predatory firefly known from a narrow range along the mid-Atlantic coast. Females mimic the flash patterns of other firefly species to lure and eat the males.
Did You Know?
By consuming other fireflies, females acquire defensive chemicals called lucibufagins that protect them from predators.