Lesser Cattle Grub vs Snail-killing Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lesser Cattle Grub | Snail-killing Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hypoderma lineatum | Tetanocera elata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Oestridae | Sciomyzidae |
| Size | 11-13 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Wetlands |
| Diet | Parasites | Predators |
| Regions | North America, Europe, Asia | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lesser Cattle Grub
A hairy, bee-like fly slightly smaller than H. bovis, whose larvae also parasitize cattle. Unlike H. bovis, its larvae migrate through the esophageal wall rather than the spinal canal. It causes significant hide damage and meat trim losses in the cattle industry.
Did You Know?
Warble damage to cattle hides makes them unsuitable for premium leather, costing the cattle industry millions in hide value annually.
Snail-killing Fly
A wetland fly whose larvae are specialized predators or parasitoids of land snails. It has been investigated as a biocontrol agent for pest snails.
Did You Know?
Larvae enter the snail's shell and consume it alive over several days.