Common Moth Fly vs Mopane Worm
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Moth Fly | Mopane Worm |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Psychoda alternata | Gonimbrasia belina |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Saturniidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 80-100 mm (caterpillar) |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Cosmopolitan | Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Moth Fly
A tiny grayish moth fly with broad, hairy wings giving it a distinctly moth-like appearance. Its wings are held flat over the body at rest, and it runs in short hops when disturbed.
Did You Know?
Moth flies are important components of sewage treatment trickling filter beds where their larvae help break down waste.
Mopane Worm
The most economically important edible insect in southern Africa. The caterpillar of an emperor moth, harvested, dried, and traded as a high-protein food across the region.
Did You Know?
Mopane worms are a $85 million annual industry in southern Africa — dried caterpillars contain 60% protein and are a crucial food security resource for millions of people.