Alpine Crane Fly vs European Malaria Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Alpine Crane Fly European Malaria Mosquito
Scientific Name Tipula alpium Anopheles atroparvus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tipulidae Culicidae
Size 15-22 mm body length 4-6 mm
Habitat Grasslands Beaches & Coastal
Diet Root Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Alps, Central European mountains Western and Northern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Alpine Crane Fly

A large crane fly of mountain pastures and alpine meadows. Its larvae are soil-dwelling and feed on grass roots.

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Did You Know?

Despite their fragile appearance, adults can fly in strong mountain winds.

European Malaria Mosquito

A medium-sized Anopheles mosquito that was the principal malaria vector in northern Europe before the disease was eliminated. It breeds in brackish coastal marshes and freshwater habitats. It still exists throughout Europe and is considered a risk for malaria reintroduction with climate change.

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Did You Know?

This mosquito transmitted malaria in England until the early 20th century, including in the marshlands of Kent where malaria was called 'marsh fever'.