Conehead Mantis vs Arctic Hover Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Conehead Mantis | Arctic Hover Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Empusa pennata | Syrphus torvus |
| Order | Mantodea | Diptera |
| Family | Empusidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 47-65 mm | 9-13 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Africa | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, subarctic Canada, Alaska |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Conehead Mantis
A distinctive European mantis with a tall conical head crest and feathery antennae in males. Nymphs resemble small aliens with their elongated heads and stick-like bodies.
Did You Know?
Nymphs of the conehead mantis curl their abdomen upward over their body when walking, causing them to resemble tiny scorpions to deter predators.
Arctic Hover Fly
A medium-sized hover fly with bold yellow and black banding that mimics a wasp. It is a skilled hoverer that can remain stationary in midair. Larvae are voracious predators of aphids on subarctic plants.
Did You Know?
This hover fly is an important pollinator in subarctic regions where honeybees are absent, visiting many northern wildflowers.