Intermedia Sandfly vs Arctic Hover Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Intermedia Sandfly | Arctic Hover Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lutzomyia intermedia | Syrphus torvus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 9-13 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Southeastern Brazil | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, subarctic Canada, Alaska |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Intermedia Sandfly
A tiny sandfly found in southeastern Brazil that is a major vector of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Atlantic Forest regions. It thrives in peridomestic environments near deforested areas and is attracted to light. It is most active during humid nights near forest remnants.
Did You Know?
Deforestation of the Atlantic Forest has brought this sandfly into closer contact with humans, increasing leishmaniasis cases.
Arctic Hover Fly
A medium-sized hover fly with bold yellow and black banding that mimics a wasp. It is a skilled hoverer that can remain stationary in midair. Larvae are voracious predators of aphids on subarctic plants.
Did You Know?
This hover fly is an important pollinator in subarctic regions where honeybees are absent, visiting many northern wildflowers.