Cobra Clubtail vs Onchocerciasis Black Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Cobra Clubtail Onchocerciasis Black Fly
Scientific Name Gomphus vastus Simulium damnosum
Order Odonata Diptera
Family Gomphidae Simuliidae
Size 58-68 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Blood Feeders
Regions North America Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Cobra Clubtail

A large North American clubtail with a dramatically flared abdomen tip and bold yellow markings. It patrols large rivers and is a powerful, fast flier.

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Did You Know?

Its abdomen tip flares out so dramatically that it resembles a cobra's hood, inspiring its common name.

Onchocerciasis Black Fly

The primary vector of river blindness in West and Central Africa. Larvae thrive in oxygen-rich rapids of tropical rivers.

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Did You Know?

This species complex transmits the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, which has blinded millions across Africa.