Myiasis-Causing Flesh Fly vs Neotropical Green Stink Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Myiasis-Causing Flesh Fly Neotropical Green Stink Bug
Scientific Name Wohlfahrtia vigil Nezara viridula
Order Diptera Hemiptera
Family Sarcophagidae Pentatomidae
Size 10-14 mm 12-16 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Parasites Seed Feeders
Regions North America, especially northern United States and Canada Pantropical, abundant in South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Myiasis-Causing Flesh Fly

A large flesh fly found in North America that causes obligate dermal myiasis in small animals including rabbits, mink, and fox kits on fur farms. Females deposit active larvae on the unbroken skin of young animals, and larvae burrow into subcutaneous tissue. Human cases are rare but documented in infants.

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Did You Know?

It preferentially attacks the young of furbearing animals, causing significant losses on mink and fox fur farms in North America.

Neotropical Green Stink Bug

A bright green shield bug with a wide, flat body and triangular scutellum. It is one of the most destructive agricultural pests across tropical regions worldwide.

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Did You Know?

Males attract mates by vibrating their abdomens on plant surfaces, sending species-specific songs through the stem.