Xyelid Sawfly vs Maricopa Harvester Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Xyelid Sawfly | Maricopa Harvester Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xyela julii | Pogonomyrmex maricopa |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Xyelidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Heathland |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Xyelidae is the oldest extant family of Hymenoptera, with fossils known from over 200 million years ago.
Maricopa Harvester Ant
Produces the most toxic insect venom known — with an LD50 of 0.12 mg/kg in mice. Just 12 stings can deliver a lethal dose to a 2 kg mammal.
Did You Know?
The venom of this ant is 20 times more potent than honey bee venom — it is the most toxic insect venom ever measured, yet the ant is only stung-aggressive when defending its nest.