Globular Tachinid vs Narcissus Bulb Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Globular Tachinid Narcissus Bulb Fly
Scientific Name Gymnosoma rotundatum Merodon equestris
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Syrphidae
Size 6-8 mm 10-15 mm
Habitat Heathland Underground
Diet Parasites Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Globular Tachinid

A distinctive round-bodied parasitic fly colored bright orange-red with black markings. Parasitizes shieldbugs. One of the most easily recognized tachinid flies.

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Did You Know?

The unusually round, bright orange body makes this one of the most recognizable parasitic flies.

Narcissus Bulb Fly

A bumble bee-mimicking hoverfly that comes in multiple color forms matching different bumblebee species. Its larvae bore into and destroy daffodil and narcissus bulbs.

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Did You Know?

It exists in multiple color forms, each mimicking a different bumblebee species found in the same habitat.