Marsh Fritillary vs Pellucid Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Marsh Fritillary | Pellucid Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Euphydryas aurinia | Volucella pellucens |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 38-50 mm wingspan | 14-17 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Scavengers |
| Regions | Europe, temperate Asia, North Africa | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern (but declining and protected under E | Least Concern |
Marsh Fritillary
A colourful butterfly with a complex mosaic of orange, cream, and brown markings across its wings. It is the most rapidly declining fritillary in Europe and is legally protected.
Did You Know?
Its populations undergo dramatic boom-and-bust cycles driven by a parasitic wasp that specialises on its larvae.
Pellucid Hoverfly
A large black hoverfly with a striking translucent white band across its abdomen. Its larvae are inquilines in the underground nests of social wasps.
Did You Know?
Its translucent white abdominal band makes it look like it has a window in its body, unlike any other hoverfly.