Dark-winged Fungus Gnat vs Hover Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dark-winged Fungus Gnat | Hover Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sciara hemerobioides | Syrphus ribesii |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Mycetophilidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 10-13 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Underground |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Nectar 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.
Did You Know?
Larvae form army-like processions of thousands marching in columns across forest floors, a phenomenon called 'Heerwurm' in German.
Hover Fly
A bright yellow and black banded hoverfly that is an excellent wasp mimic. It hovers motionless in sunbeams before darting to a new position with extraordinary agility.
Did You Know?
Hoverflies are the only insects besides hummingbirds and hawk-moths that can truly hover in one spot, fly backward, and fly sideways with precision.