Amazonian Giant Stick Insect vs Mydas Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Amazonian Giant Stick Insect | Mydas Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bacteria ferula | Gauromydas heros |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Diptera |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Mydidae |
| Size | 150-230 mm | 40-60 mm body |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | South America (Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador) | South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Amazonian Giant Stick Insect
A very long stick insect reaching over 200 mm, with an extremely thin body that closely mimics dead twigs. Females are larger and thicker than males and are capable of parthenogenetic reproduction. It remains motionless during the day, swaying gently to mimic wind-blown vegetation.
Did You Know?
Its genus name Bacteria was coined long before the microorganisms were named and refers to its stick-like appearance (from Greek bakterion, meaning small staff).
Mydas Fly
The largest fly in the world at up to 60 mm long with a 100 mm wingspan. A wasp mimic with black body and orange-red markings. Larvae develop in ant nests.
Did You Know?
At 6 cm long with a 10 cm wingspan, this is the worlds largest fly — it mimics a spider wasp so convincingly that even entomologists can be fooled at first glance.