Svalbard Rove Beetle vs Brown Willow Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Svalbard Rove Beetle | Brown Willow Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Atheta islandica | Galerucella lineola |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Iceland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Greenland | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Brown Willow Beetle
A small brown beetle that feeds on willow leaves and can cause significant defoliation. Has been used as a biological control agent for purple loosestrife in North America.
Did You Know?
A close relative was deliberately introduced to North America as biological control for invasive purple loosestrife.