Crane Fly vs Orthoclad Stream Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Crane Fly | Orthoclad Stream Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tipula paludosa | Orthocladius oblidens |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Tipulidae | Chironomidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 3-5 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Crane Fly
Often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but completely harmless. Adults often do not feed at all. Larvae (leatherjackets) live in soil and can be lawn pests.
Did You Know?
Despite looking terrifying, crane flies are completely harmless — they cannot bite or sting. Most adults live just a few days and many never eat at all.
Orthoclad Stream Midge
A small non-biting midge typical of cold running water habitats. Larvae build silk tubes on stone surfaces in stream riffles.
Did You Know?
Orthocladiinae midges are often the most species-rich insect group in pristine mountain streams.