Face Fly vs Algerian Desert Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Face Fly Algerian Desert Mantis
Scientific Name Musca autumnalis Eremiaphila denticornis
Order Diptera Mantodea
Family Muscidae Eremiaphilidae
Size 7-8 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Farmland Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America Algeria, Morocco
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Face Fly

A non-biting muscid fly that feeds on secretions around the eyes and nose of cattle. It is a mechanical vector of the cattle pinkeye pathogen Moraxella bovis.

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Did You Know?

It enters homes in large numbers each autumn to overwinter, hence the name autumnalis.

Algerian Desert Mantis

A robust desert mantis with toothed antennae found in the rocky deserts of Algeria. It is among the larger species in the family.

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Did You Know?

Its antennae have small tooth-like projections that are unique among desert mantises.