Australian Scorpionfly vs Common Moth Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Scorpionfly | Common Moth Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Harpobittacus australis | Psychoda alternata |
| Order | Mecoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Bittacidae | Psychodidae |
| Size | 18-22 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | Oceania | Cosmopolitan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Scorpionfly
An Australian hangingfly that suspends itself from vegetation and catches prey with its raptorial hind legs. Males present captured prey to females as nuptial gifts.
Did You Know?
Female Australian scorpionflies assess nuptial gifts by tasting the prey — if it is nutritionally poor, they reject the male and fly away.
Common Moth Fly
A tiny grayish moth fly with broad, hairy wings giving it a distinctly moth-like appearance. Its wings are held flat over the body at rest, and it runs in short hops when disturbed.
Did You Know?
Moth flies are important components of sewage treatment trickling filter beds where their larvae help break down waste.