Striped Turnip Flea Beetle vs Violin Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Striped Turnip Flea Beetle Violin Mantis
Scientific Name Phyllotreta undulata Gongylus gongylodes
Order Coleoptera Mantodea
Family Chrysomelidae Empusidae
Size 1.5-2.5 mm 70-110 mm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Striped Turnip Flea Beetle

A tiny flea beetle with sinuous yellow stripes that is a significant pest of brassica seedlings. Shothole damage to leaves is characteristic. One of several damaging Phyllotreta species.

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Did You Know?

Emerging seedlings can be destroyed overnight by large numbers of these tiny beetles creating characteristic shot-holes.

Violin Mantis

Named for its elongated prothorax resembling a violin neck. Has leaf-like lobes on all legs and a distinctive crown on its head. Sways constantly to mimic wind-blown vegetation.

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Did You Know?

The violin mantis is the only mantis species commonly attracted to artificial light sources — it sways continuously even when still, mimicking a leaf caught in a breeze.