Belkin's Dune Tabanid Fly vs Swede Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Belkin's Dune Tabanid Fly | Swede Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Brennania belkini | Contarinia nasturtii |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Tabanidae | Cecidomyiidae |
| Size | 1-1.5 cm | 1.5-2 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Gall Makers |
| Regions | United States | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Belkin's Dune Tabanid Fly
A rare horse fly known only from the El Segundo sand dunes in Los Angeles County. Larvae develop in the sand and adults are seldom encountered.
Did You Know?
Most of the El Segundo dunes were destroyed to build Los Angeles International Airport.
Swede Midge
A minute yellowish-brown gall midge that attacks brassica crops by distorting growing points. Its tiny larvae feed inside developing buds, causing characteristic twisted and swollen growth.
Did You Know?
It was first detected in North America in 2000 and has since become a major emerging pest of brassica crops.