Cylindrical Tachinid vs Polynesian Tiger Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Cylindrical Tachinid Polynesian Tiger Mosquito
Scientific Name Cylindromyia brassicaria Aedes polynesiensis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Culicidae
Size 8-12 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Heathland Woodlands
Diet Parasites Blood Feeders
Regions Europe South Pacific islands, Polynesia, Melanesia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Cylindrical Tachinid

A slender, wasp-like parasitic fly with a narrow cylindrical abdomen. Parasitizes shieldbugs by laying eggs directly onto the host. Found in warm, flower-rich habitats.

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Did You Know?

Its wasp-like appearance is a remarkable case of mimicry in a group of true flies.

Polynesian Tiger Mosquito

A dark mosquito with white markings found across the South Pacific islands. It is an important vector of lymphatic filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti) and dengue in the Pacific. It breeds in natural containers like coconut shells, crab holes, and tree holes.

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Did You Know?

Biological control using the mosquito Toxorhynchites amboinensis was attempted in the Pacific, as it preys on Aedes larvae.