Ant-like Flower Beetle vs Black and Gold Velvet Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ant-like Flower Beetle | Black and Gold Velvet Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anthicus antherinus | Dasymutilla nigripes |
| Order | Coleoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Anthicidae | Mutillidae |
| Size | 2.5-3.5 mm | 10-16 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Central North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Ant-like Flower Beetle
A tiny beetle resembling an ant, found on flowers and under debris. Has a distinctive narrowed 'neck' between head and thorax. Common but rarely noticed due to small size.
Did You Know?
The narrow 'neck' and ant-like shape give it excellent ant mimicry that helps deter predators.
Black and Gold Velvet Ant
A medium-sized velvet ant with golden-orange hair on the thorax contrasting with its black legs and abdomen. It is found across the central United States.
Did You Know?
Velvet ants can survive being stung by almost any predator due to their nearly impenetrable exoskeleton.