Chagasi Sandfly vs Helena Olive Wireworm Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Chagasi Sandfly | Helena Olive Wireworm Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lutzomyia evansi | Tarphius wollastoni |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Zopheridae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 0.3-0.6 cm |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Colombia, Venezuela, northern South America | St. Helena |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Critically Endangered |
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.
Helena Olive Wireworm Beetle
A small beetle endemic to St. Helena in the South Atlantic. It is associated with decaying endemic gumwood trees.
Did You Know?
St. Helena's native gumwood forests have been reduced to a few tiny remnant patches since colonization.