Lovebug vs Aquatic Snail-killing Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lovebug Aquatic Snail-killing Fly
Scientific Name Plecia nearctica Sepedon sphegea
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Bibionidae Sciomyzidae
Size 6-9 mm 5-9 mm
Habitat Grasslands Wetlands
Diet Nectar Feeders Predators
Regions North America, Central America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Lovebug

A small black march fly famous for flying in mated pairs connected end to end for days. Massive swarms occur twice yearly in the southeastern United States, causing significant nuisance.

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Did You Know?

Their acidic body chemistry can damage car paint if not washed off quickly, costing motorists millions annually.

Aquatic Snail-killing Fly

A slender marsh fly with a distinctly pointed abdomen and yellowish-brown coloring. Larvae are aquatic predators of freshwater snails, attacking them underwater.

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Did You Know?

A single larva may consume multiple snails during its development, making it an effective natural snail control agent.