Ochraceum Black Fly vs Splendid Ground Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ochraceum Black Fly | Splendid Ground Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Simulium ochraceum | Carabus splendens |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Simuliidae | Carabidae |
| Size | 1.5-3 mm | 22-32 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Mexico, Guatemala, southern Mexico, Central America | Pyrenees (France and Spain) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
Ochraceum Black Fly
A small orangish-brown black fly that is the principal vector of onchocerciasis in Central America and southern Mexico. It breeds in small, fast-running mountain streams. Biting activity peaks in the early morning and late afternoon in coffee-growing regions.
Did You Know?
The Americas are close to eliminating onchocerciasis thanks to mass ivermectin distribution targeting this vector's parasite.
Splendid Ground Beetle
A dazzling green and gold ground beetle endemic to the Pyrenees mountains. It is prized by collectors for its brilliant metallic sheen.
Did You Know?
Its range is restricted to a narrow band of the Pyrenees, making it one of Europe's most localised Carabus species.