Comb-horned Crane Fly vs Ornate Soldier Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Comb-horned Crane Fly | Ornate Soldier Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ctenophora ornata | Odontomyia ornata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Tipulidae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm body length | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Comb-horned Crane Fly
A striking wasp-mimicking crane fly with yellow and black abdominal bands. Males have elaborate comb-like antennae used to detect female pheromones.
Did You Know?
Its presence indicates ancient woodland because larvae require large-diameter decaying logs.
Ornate Soldier Fly
A medium-sized soldier fly with a green and black patterned abdomen and a somewhat flattened body. Adults are sluggish fliers often found basking on waterside vegetation.
Did You Know?
Its aquatic larvae have a unique hydrophobic tail fringe that acts as a breathing snorkel at the water surface.