European Malaria Mosquito vs Common Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Malaria Mosquito | Common Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anopheles atroparvus | Tipula oleracea |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Culicidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 15-25 mm body length |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Farmland |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Western and Northern Europe | Throughout North America, originally from Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
European Malaria Mosquito
A medium-sized Anopheles mosquito that was the principal malaria vector in northern Europe before the disease was eliminated. It breeds in brackish coastal marshes and freshwater habitats. It still exists throughout Europe and is considered a risk for malaria reintroduction with climate change.
Did You Know?
This mosquito transmitted malaria in England until the early 20th century, including in the marshlands of Kent where malaria was called 'marsh fever'.
Common Crane Fly
A large gray-brown crane fly with extremely long fragile legs that often enters homes in autumn. Its larvae, called leatherjackets, are common turf pests.
Did You Know?
Despite being frequently mistaken for giant mosquitoes, crane flies cannot bite and most adults never eat at all.