Tepui Firefly vs Saxon Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tepui Firefly | Saxon Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Photinus tepui | Dolichovespula saxonica |
| Order | Coleoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Lampyridae | Vespidae |
| Size | 10-15 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | South America (Venezuela - tepui region, Guyana) | Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Tepui Firefly
A bioluminescent beetle endemic to the isolated tepui tabletop mountains of Venezuela. It produces a distinctive greenish-yellow flash pattern used in mate attraction. The larvae are also luminous and prey on snails and other small invertebrates on the tepui summit.
Did You Know?
It lives only on the ancient tabletop mountains of Venezuela, which have been isolated for millions of years, making it a living relic of evolutionary history.
Saxon Wasp
A social wasp that builds distinctive grey football-shaped nests in trees and bushes. It is generally docile and its colonies die off naturally by late summer.
Did You Know?
It was first confirmed breeding in Britain only in 1987, having expanded its range from mainland Europe.