Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle vs Great Spangled Fritillary
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle | Great Spangled Fritillary |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paropsis charybdis | Speyeria cybele |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Chrysomelidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 9-12 mm | 62-88 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Australia (native), introduced to New Zealand | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle
A pale yellowish-brown beetle with dark spots on the elytra and a characteristic domed tortoise-like shape. It is a major defoliator of Eucalyptus plantations in New Zealand.
Did You Know?
It has become one of the most significant forestry pests in New Zealand, where it was accidentally introduced and has no native natural enemies.
Great Spangled Fritillary
Large orange butterfly with heavy black markings and silver spots on the hindwing underside. Common across much of North America.
Did You Know?
Newly hatched caterpillars do not eat until the following spring after overwintering.