Common Graphium vs Narcissus Bulb Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Graphium Narcissus Bulb Fly
Scientific Name Graphium leonidas Merodon equestris
Order Lepidoptera Diptera
Family Papilionidae Syrphidae
Size 65-80 mm wingspan 10-15 mm
Habitat Forests Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions West and Central Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Senegal, Ivory Coast) Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Graphium

A striking swallowtail butterfly with black wings marked with pale blue-green translucent spots. It is a fast and powerful flier often seen in forest clearings. Males gather at mud puddles in large groups.

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Did You Know?

Groups of up to 50 males can be seen drinking together at riverside mud puddles, creating a spectacular display of color.

Narcissus Bulb Fly

A bumble bee-mimicking hoverfly that comes in multiple color forms matching different bumblebee species. Its larvae bore into and destroy daffodil and narcissus bulbs.

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Did You Know?

It exists in multiple color forms, each mimicking a different bumblebee species found in the same habitat.