Narcissus Bulb Fly vs Aquatic Crane Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Narcissus Bulb Fly Aquatic Crane Fly
Scientific Name Merodon equestris Antocha saxicola
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Syrphidae Limoniidae
Size 10-15 mm 5-8 mm
Habitat Underground Rivers & Streams
Diet Nectar Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced) North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Narcissus Bulb Fly

A bumble bee-mimicking hoverfly that comes in multiple color forms matching different bumblebee species. Its larvae bore into and destroy daffodil and narcissus bulbs.

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Did You Know?

It exists in multiple color forms, each mimicking a different bumblebee species found in the same habitat.

Aquatic Crane Fly

A small crane fly whose larvae build silken cases on submerged rocks in fast-flowing streams. Larvae are true aquatic inhabitants rather than semi-terrestrial.

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Did You Know?

Larvae are among the few crane flies that are fully aquatic throughout development, never leaving the water.