Long-Palped Crane Fly vs Eye Gnat

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Long-Palped Crane Fly Eye Gnat
Scientific Name Dicranota bimaculata Liohippelates pusio
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Pediciidae Chloropidae
Size 8-12 mm 1.5-2.5 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Farmland
Diet Predators Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe Southern United States, Central America, Caribbean
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.

Eye Gnat

A tiny, shiny black fly attracted to eye and wound secretions of humans and animals. It is a suspected mechanical vector of bacterial conjunctivitis and yaws in tropical regions. Its persistent swarming around the face makes it an extremely annoying pest in agricultural areas.

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Did You Know?

These flies are so strongly attracted to eye secretions that they will persistently return to a person's face even after being brushed away dozens of times.