Dark-winged Fungus Gnat vs Horse Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark-winged Fungus Gnat Horse Fly
Scientific Name Sciara hemerobioides Tabanus bovinus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Mycetophilidae Tabanidae
Size 4-6 mm 20-25 mm
Habitat Woodlands Wetlands
Diet Fungus Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dark-winged Fungus Gnat

A small, dark fungus gnat with smoky wings and long slender antennae. Its larvae are known for forming spectacular marching columns of thousands of individuals.

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Did You Know?

Larvae form army-like processions of thousands marching in columns across forest floors, a phenomenon called 'Heerwurm' in German.

Horse Fly

A large, stout fly with huge iridescent compound eyes that display rainbow patterns. Only females bite, using scissor-like mouthparts to slash skin and lap up blood.

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Did You Know?

Horse fly eyes display stunning iridescent bands of color created by structural interference patterns, and scientists have used their anti-reflective eye structure to design better solar panels.