Black Sexton Beetle vs Red Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Sexton Beetle Red Lacewing
Scientific Name Necrophorus vespilloides Cethosia biblis
Order Coleoptera Lepidoptera
Family Silphidae Nymphalidae
Size 12-18 mm 80-95 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Carrion Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Southeast Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Sexton Beetle

A remarkable burying beetle that locates small animal carcasses using acute sense of smell. Pairs work together to bury the carcass as food for their larvae. Shows sophisticated biparental care.

💡

Did You Know?

Both parents feed their larvae mouth-to-mouth with pre-digested carrion, like birds feeding chicks.

Red Lacewing

A large butterfly with brilliant red-orange wings boldly bordered in black and white. The underside features an elaborate network of red, white, and black in a striking lacework pattern.

💡

Did You Know?

The caterpillars are gregarious and covered in branching spines that deliver a mild sting, providing collective defense against predators.