Unusual-diet
Guides
Aclypea bituberosa
Western Spinach Carrion Beetle, Spinach Carrion Beetle
Aclypea bituberosa is a phytophagous carrion beetle in the family Silphidae, notable for being herbivorous rather than necrophagous like most of its relatives. Adults and larvae feed on leaves and shoots of various crop plants, particularly spinach and beets, causing occasional agricultural damage. The species has a single generation per year, overwintering as adults. It is restricted to the northwestern quarter of North America.
Feniseca
North American Harvesters, Harvester
Feniseca is a monotypic genus of butterflies in the family Lycaenidae, containing a single species, Feniseca tarquinius (the harvester). This genus is notable for representing the only obligate carnivorous butterfly in North America. The larvae feed exclusively on aphids rather than plant material, a highly unusual trait among butterflies. Adults are found in wooded habitats near streams, particularly in association with alders.
Megalotomus quinquespinosus
Lupine Bug
Megalotomus quinquespinosus, commonly known as the lupine bug, is a broad-headed bug in the family Alydidae. It is found across North America. While many alydids are primarily plant-feeders, this species has been documented feeding on carrion and dung, including the remains of small mammals in predator scat. This behavior represents an unusual expansion of diet beyond typical seed-feeding habits seen in related species.