Narcissus Bulb Fly vs Gothic Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Narcissus Bulb Fly Gothic Moth
Scientific Name Merodon equestris Naenia typica
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Syrphidae Noctuidae
Size 10-15 mm 40-48 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced) Europe, Western Asia
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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Gothic Moth

A dark brown moth with intricate pale crosslines and markings resembling Gothic architecture. It is increasingly scarce across much of its former range.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite being widespread, it has declined by over 80% in parts of northern Europe in recent decades.