Mustard Beetle vs Cuban Clear-winged Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mustard Beetle Cuban Clear-winged Moth
Scientific Name Phaedon cochleariae Carmenta bassiformis
Order Coleoptera Lepidoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Sesiidae
Size 3-4 mm 20-30 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Underground
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Cuba
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Mustard Beetle

A small metallic blue-black beetle that feeds on watercress, mustard and other crucifers. Both adults and larvae damage crops. Common in damp habitats near streams.

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Did You Know?

Commercial watercress growers regard this tiny beetle as one of their most persistent pest problems.

Cuban Clear-winged Moth

A wasp-mimicking moth found in Cuba with transparent wings. Its narrow body and buzzing flight closely resemble a small wasp.

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Did You Know?

Its near-perfect wasp mimicry deters birds and other visual predators.