Dance Fly vs Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dance Fly | Comstock's Net-Winged Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Empis tessellata | Agathon comstocki |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Empididae | Blephariceridae |
| Size | 10-12 mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Dance Fly
A predatory fly in which males present silk-wrapped insect prey as nuptial gifts to females. Mating swarms form elaborate aerial dances over landmarks.
Did You Know?
Some males cheat by wrapping inedible items or empty silk balloons to trick females into mating.
Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
A western North American net-winged midge found on waterfall-splashed rocks. Larvae have a unique caterpillar-like body with sucker discs.
Did You Know?
Larvae inch forward using alternating suction attachment, moving like a caterpillar across wet rock faces.