Triplaris Ant vs Larder Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Triplaris Ant | Larder Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pseudomyrmex triplarinus | Dermestes lardarius |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Dermestidae |
| Size | 4-7 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Gardens |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | South America, Amazon Basin | Worldwide |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Triplaris Ant
A South American ant that inhabits the hollow stems of Triplaris trees in a mutualistic relationship. Workers swarm out and deliver painful stings when the host tree is disturbed.
Did You Know?
Local people call Triplaris the 'devil tree' because touching it triggers an immediate attack by hundreds of stinging ants.
Larder Beetle
A dark brown beetle with a pale band across its elytra, commonly found in stored food products. Larvae are covered in bristly hairs.
Did You Know?
Forensic entomologists use its presence on remains to help estimate time of death.