Long-Palped Crane Fly vs Comb-horned Crane Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Long-Palped Crane Fly Comb-horned Crane Fly
Scientific Name Dicranota bimaculata Ctenophora ornata
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Pediciidae Tipulidae
Size 8-12 mm 15-25 mm body length
Habitat Rivers & Streams Woodlands
Diet Predators Wood Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Long-Palped Crane Fly

A short-bodied crane fly whose predatory larvae inhabit gravel beds of clean streams. Larvae are active hunters among cobble interstices.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most crane fly larvae, this species is an active predator rather than a detritivore.

Comb-horned Crane Fly

A striking wasp-mimicking crane fly with yellow and black abdominal bands. Males have elaborate comb-like antennae used to detect female pheromones.

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Did You Know?

Its presence indicates ancient woodland because larvae require large-diameter decaying logs.