Giant Tachinid Fly vs European Corn Borer Parasite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Tachinid Fly European Corn Borer Parasite
Scientific Name Tachina grossa Macrocentrus grandii
Order Diptera Hymenoptera
Family Tachinidae Braconidae
Size 12-18 mm 5-8 mm
Habitat Heathland Farmland
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Europe, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Giant Tachinid Fly

The largest tachinid fly in Europe, covered in dense black bristles. It parasitizes large moth caterpillars and is often seen on flowers in late summer.

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Did You Know?

Despite its intimidating bee-like appearance, it is completely harmless to humans.

European Corn Borer Parasite

A slender braconid wasp introduced to North America to control the European corn borer. It lays polyembryonic eggs that multiply inside the host caterpillar.

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Did You Know?

A single egg divides into up to 30 genetically identical larvae inside the host through polyembryony.