Common Gnat vs New Caledonian Monarch Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Gnat New Caledonian Monarch Fly
Scientific Name Culex modestus Bactrocera umbrosa
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Culicidae Tephritidae
Size 4-5 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Farmland Orchards
Diet Blood Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions Europe, Central Asia, North Africa New Caledonia, Pacific Islands
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Common Gnat

A small brownish mosquito widespread across Europe and Central Asia that breeds in marshes and rice paddies. It is a competent vector of West Nile virus and is considered the species responsible for several West Nile virus outbreaks in Europe. It feeds readily on both birds and mammals.

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Did You Know?

This species was identified as the key West Nile virus vector in the Camargue wetlands of southern France.

New Caledonian Monarch Fly

A fruit fly found in New Caledonia and the western Pacific. It is a pest of breadfruit and jackfruit trees.

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Did You Know?

Males gather in large leks on fruit trees where they display to attract females.