Gypsy Moth Parasite vs Comb-horned Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Gypsy Moth Parasite | Comb-horned Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cotesia melanoscela | Ctenophora ornata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Braconidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 15-25 mm body length |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Eastern North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Gypsy Moth Parasite
A small braconid introduced to North America to control the invasive gypsy moth. It attacks early-instar caterpillars and larvae emerge to pupate externally.
Did You Know?
It was one of the first parasitoid wasps deliberately imported to North America for classical biological control in the early 1900s.
Comb-horned Crane Fly
A striking wasp-mimicking crane fly with yellow and black abdominal bands. Males have elaborate comb-like antennae used to detect female pheromones.
Did You Know?
Its presence indicates ancient woodland because larvae require large-diameter decaying logs.