Banded Blackfly vs Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banded Blackfly | Flat-footed Scuttle Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Simulium ornatum | Metopina oligoneura |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Simuliidae | Phoridae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 1-2 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Asia |
| 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.
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
A minute brown phorid fly with broad flattened tarsi and reduced wing venation. It is associated with ant nests where it scavenges on refuse and dead ants.
Did You Know?
It lives inside ant colonies as a tolerated guest, feeding on the waste materials that ants discard in their refuse chambers.