Gypsy Moth Tachinid vs Mountain Net-Winged Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gypsy Moth Tachinid Mountain Net-Winged Midge
Scientific Name Compsilura concinnata Blepharicera capitata
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Blephariceridae
Size 7-10 mm 7-11 mm
Habitat Woodlands Mountains
Diet Parasites Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America, Asia North America
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.

Mountain Net-Winged Midge

A large net-winged midge of Appalachian mountain streams. Larvae require extremely clean, well-oxygenated water flowing over smooth bedrock.

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Did You Know?

Females of some Blepharicera species are predatory on other small flies, catching them with their raptorial mouthparts.