Old World Screwworm vs Ornate Soldier Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Old World Screwworm | Ornate Soldier Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysomya bezziana | Odontomyia ornata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Calliphoridae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 8-11 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Parasites | Herbivores |
| Regions | Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Old World Screwworm
An obligate wound parasite of mammals found across Africa and Asia. Larvae invade wounds and feed on living tissue causing severe myiasis.
Did You Know?
Unlike the New World screwworm, no sterile insect program has yet successfully eradicated this species.
Ornate Soldier Fly
A medium-sized soldier fly with a green and black patterned abdomen and a somewhat flattened body. Adults are sluggish fliers often found basking on waterside vegetation.
Did You Know?
Its aquatic larvae have a unique hydrophobic tail fringe that acts as a breathing snorkel at the water surface.