Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat vs Eastern Tree Hole Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat Eastern Tree Hole Mosquito
Scientific Name Keroplatus testaceus Aedes triseriatus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Keroplatidae Culicidae
Size 8-12 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Woodlands Forests
Diet Fungus Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Eastern North America
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat

A remarkable fungus gnat whose larvae create bioluminescent webs on bracket fungi. The blue-green glow attracts prey insects. One of the few bioluminescent insects outside fireflies.

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Did You Know?

Larvae glow in the dark, creating eerie blue-green patches on bracket fungi in dark forests.

Eastern Tree Hole Mosquito

A forest mosquito that breeds in water-filled tree holes and discarded tires. It is the primary vector of La Crosse encephalitis virus in North America.

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Did You Know?

It can transmit La Crosse virus directly to its offspring through transovarial transmission.