Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat vs German Yellowjacket

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat German Yellowjacket
Scientific Name Keroplatus testaceus Vespula germanica
Order Diptera Hymenoptera
Family Keroplatidae Vespidae
Size 8-12 mm 12-16 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Fungus Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa
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.

German Yellowjacket

A highly adaptable social wasp that has become one of the most widespread invasive insects globally. They build large enclosed paper nests in wall cavities and roof spaces.

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Did You Know?

Indoor nests in heated buildings can survive winter and grow to enormous sizes containing over a million cells.