Alpine Soldierfly vs Downlooker Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alpine Soldierfly | Downlooker Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Oxycera morrisii | Rhagio tringarius |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Stratiomyidae | Rhagionidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm body length | 8-12mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Wetlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | British Isles, Alps, Northern Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Alpine Soldierfly
A small, brightly patterned soldierfly found near mountain springs and seepages. Its larvae develop in calcareous spring water at high elevations.
Did You Know?
Its larvae encrust themselves with calcium carbonate from the mineral-rich spring water.
Downlooker Fly
A slender predatory fly with spotted wings that perches head-downward on vegetation waiting for prey.
Did You Know?
Always rests facing downward on stems and leaves, earning it the name downlooker or snipe fly.