Horn-faced Marsh Fly vs Lovebug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Horn-faced Marsh Fly | Lovebug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dictya umbrarum | Plecia nearctica |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Sciomyzidae | Bibionidae |
| Size | 4-7 mm | 6-9 mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Detritivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | North America | North America, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Horn-faced Marsh Fly
A small yellowish marsh fly with patterned wings and prominent facial ridges. Larvae feed on decomposing aquatic snails in shallow wetland habitats.
Did You Know?
Sciomyzid flies are the only family of Diptera in which the larvae are obligate associates of mollusks.
Lovebug
A small black march fly famous for flying in mated pairs connected end to end for days. Massive swarms occur twice yearly in the southeastern United States, causing significant nuisance.
Did You Know?
Their acidic body chemistry can damage car paint if not washed off quickly, costing motorists millions annually.