New Zealand Glowworm vs Fleck-winged Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Glowworm | Fleck-winged Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arachnocampa luminosa | Dasysyrphus albostriatus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Keroplatidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm (larvae) | 9-12 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Woodlands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Glowworm
A bioluminescent fungus gnat larva endemic to New Zealand. Produces blue-green light to lure prey into sticky silk threads dangling from cave ceilings.
Did You Know?
These glowworms use a completely different bioluminescent chemistry from fireflies — their luciferin is unique in the animal kingdom, derived from xanthurenic acid.
Fleck-winged Hoverfly
A woodland hoverfly with white crescent markings on a dark abdomen. It is one of the earliest hoverflies to appear in spring.
Did You Know?
It is sometimes called the white-striped hoverfly because of the distinctive pale marks on its dark abdomen.