Xyelid Sawfly vs Badger Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Xyelid Sawfly Badger Flea
Scientific Name Xyela julii Paraceras melis
Order Hymenoptera Siphonaptera
Family Xyelidae Ceratophyllidae
Size 3-5 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Pollen Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Xyelid Sawfly

A tiny, delicate sawfly with a characteristic elongated third antennal segment. It is one of the most primitive living Hymenoptera, with fossils dating back to the Triassic.

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Did You Know?

Xyelidae is the oldest extant family of Hymenoptera, with fossils known from over 200 million years ago.

Badger Flea

A large flea specialized to parasitize European badgers. It is found in badger setts and is one of the largest flea species in Europe.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the largest fleas in the world and its size corresponds to the thick skin of its badger host.