Neavei Black Fly vs Satellite Flesh Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Neavei Black Fly Satellite Flesh Fly
Scientific Name Simulium neavei Sarcophaga africa
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Simuliidae Sarcophagidae
Size 2-3 mm 8-14 mm
Habitat Forests Farmland
Diet Herbivores Carrion Feeders
Regions East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya Africa, Asia, Southern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Neavei Black Fly

A small black fly whose larvae uniquely attach to freshwater crabs rather than rocks or vegetation. It is a vector of river blindness in East Africa, particularly in forested areas. The association with crabs makes it vulnerable to control by removing the crab hosts.

💡

Did You Know?

Eliminating the freshwater crabs that carry its larvae successfully eradicated onchocerciasis from parts of East Africa.

Satellite Flesh Fly

A tropical flesh fly that deposits larvae on carcasses and open wounds. It can cause myiasis in livestock and occasionally in humans.

💡

Did You Know?

It can complete its entire larval development in carrion in as little as four days in warm conditions.