Early Thorn vs Peruvian Sandfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Early Thorn | Peruvian Sandfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Selenia dentaria | Phlebotomus perniciosus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Psychodidae |
| Size | 32-40 mm wingspan | 2-3 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, North Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Early Thorn
A moth that resembles a dead leaf when at rest, with twig-like resting posture. The spring generation is larger and darker than the summer generation. Comes readily to light.
Did You Know?
When at rest, this moth perches with wings raised over its back like a butterfly, mimicking a dead leaf.
Peruvian Sandfly
A small sandfly found across the Mediterranean basin that is the primary vector of Leishmania infantum, which causes visceral leishmaniasis in dogs and humans in southern Europe. It is also a vector of Toscana virus, which causes meningitis. It breeds in stone walls and animal shelters.
Did You Know?
Canine leishmaniasis transmitted by this fly affects millions of dogs across southern Europe and is increasingly spreading northward with climate change.