European Malaria Mosquito vs Golden Tachinid Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute European Malaria Mosquito Golden Tachinid Fly
Scientific Name Anopheles atroparvus Archytas marmoratus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Culicidae Tachinidae
Size 4-6 mm 10-14 mm
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Farmland
Diet Blood Feeders Parasites
Regions Western and Northern Europe North America, Central America
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.

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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'.

Golden Tachinid Fly

A large bristly parasitic fly with golden-brown hairs found across the Americas. It parasitizes armyworm and cutworm caterpillars in crops.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most important natural enemies of fall armyworm in North American agriculture.