Crane Fly vs Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Crane Fly | Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tipula paludosa | Trachymyrmex septentrionalis |
| Order | Diptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Tipulidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 3-5 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Eastern United States |
| 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.
Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant
A small fungus-growing ant of eastern North America related to leafcutters. It collects dead plant material, caterpillar frass, and insect parts to feed its fungus garden.
Did You Know?
It is the northernmost fungus-growing ant species, found as far north as Long Island, New York.