Common Stiletto Fly vs Northern Emerald Dragonfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Stiletto Fly Northern Emerald Dragonfly
Scientific Name Thereva nobilitata Somatochlora arctica
Order Diptera Odonata
Family Therevidae Corduliidae
Size 8-12 mm 48-55 mm body length
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Europe Northern Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Common Stiletto Fly

A slender, densely hairy fly with a pointed abdomen and silvery-white body hairs. Adults bask on sunlit leaves and bare ground, making short rapid flights when approached.

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Did You Know?

Stiletto fly larvae are important biological control agents, feeding on root-eating pest larvae in sandy soils.

Northern Emerald Dragonfly

A rare dragonfly of northern bogs and moorland pools. Has brilliant emerald-green eyes and a bronzy-green body. One of the most northerly-ranging dragonfly species.

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Did You Know?

One of the few dragonfly species adapted to breed in acidic bog pools with very low nutrient levels.