Banded Blackfly vs Common Bat Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banded Blackfly | Common Bat Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Simulium ornatum | Basilia nana |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Simuliidae | Nycteribiidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 2-3 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Caves |
| Diet | Herbivores | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Banded Blackfly
A widespread European black fly species complex found in diverse stream types. Larvae filter-feed from silken pads attached to trailing vegetation and stones.
Did You Know?
Recent DNA studies revealed that what was considered one species is actually a complex of several cryptic species.
Common Bat Fly
A tiny, completely wingless spider-like fly that parasitizes bats. Its body is so highly modified for ectoparasitism that it bears almost no resemblance to a typical fly.
Did You Know?
It has evolved to be so specialized that its head folds back over the thorax, and it walks like a spider through bat fur.