Horse Fly vs Fleabane Tortoise Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Horse Fly | Fleabane Tortoise Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tabanus bovinus | Cassida murraea |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Tabanidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 20-25 mm | 5-6 mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Wetlands |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Horse Fly
A large, stout fly with huge iridescent compound eyes that display rainbow patterns. Only females bite, using scissor-like mouthparts to slash skin and lap up blood.
Did You Know?
Horse fly eyes display stunning iridescent bands of color created by structural interference patterns, and scientists have used their anti-reflective eye structure to design better solar panels.
Fleabane Tortoise Beetle
A striking red-brown and black tortoise beetle associated with fleabane plants. Has characteristic dark markings on the transparent shield margin. Found in damp habitats.
Did You Know?
The larvae cover themselves with their own excrement and shed skins as a defensive shield.