Gypsy Moth Tachinid vs European Large Firefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gypsy Moth Tachinid European Large Firefly
Scientific Name Compsilura concinnata Lamprohiza splendidula
Order Diptera Coleoptera
Family Tachinidae Lampyridae
Size 7-10 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Parasites Predators
Regions Europe, North America, Asia Central Europe, Northern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Gypsy Moth Tachinid

A parasitic fly introduced to North America from Europe to control gypsy moths. It has an extremely broad host range attacking over 200 insect species.

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Did You Know?

Its introduction to North America is now considered a mistake because it devastated native silk moth populations.

European Large Firefly

A central European firefly whose males produce a continuous greenish glow while flying. Its predatory larvae spend up to three years feeding on snails in woodland soils.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most European glowworms both males and females of this species are bioluminescent.