Chagasi Sandfly vs Arctic Louse Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Chagasi Sandfly | Arctic Louse Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lutzomyia evansi | Ornithomya fringillina |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Hippoboscidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Parasites |
| Regions | Colombia, Venezuela, northern South America | Scandinavia, northern Russia, subarctic Canada, Alaska |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Chagasi Sandfly
A small sandfly found in northern Colombia and Venezuela that is an important vector of Leishmania infantum chagasi, causing visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas. It thrives in peridomestic environments and feeds on dogs, the main reservoir host, as well as humans.
Did You Know?
Insecticide-treated dog collars have been used to reduce visceral leishmaniasis transmission by this species by protecting the canine reservoir.
Arctic Louse Fly
A flattened, wingless or short-winged parasitic fly that lives among the feathers of Arctic birds. Its laterally flattened body allows it to move easily through plumage. Adults have strong claws for gripping feathers.
Did You Know?
These flies can survive being transported thousands of kilometers on migratory birds from the Arctic to their wintering grounds.