Squirrel Flea vs Malagasy Trap-jaw Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Squirrel Flea | Malagasy Trap-jaw Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orchopeas howardi | Mystrium oberthueri |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Amblyoponidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 4-7 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Parasites | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Madagascar |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Squirrel Flea
A common ectoparasite of eastern gray squirrels and flying squirrels in North America. It is found in squirrel nests and tree cavities.
Did You Know?
This flea can survive several months without feeding while waiting in an abandoned squirrel nest.
Malagasy Trap-jaw Ant
A pale yellow to amber ant with elongated mandibles that can snap shut at extreme speeds. It is closely related to M. camillae and shares the Dracula ant feeding behavior.
Did You Know?
Like other Dracula ants, workers feed by non-destructively puncturing larval skin and drinking hemolymph, a practice unique among ants.