Orange Wheat Blossom Midge vs Queen of Spain Fritillary
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Orange Wheat Blossom Midge | Queen of Spain Fritillary |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sitodiplosis mosellana | Issoria lathonia |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Cecidomyiidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 38-50 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Europe, Africa, temperate Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Orange Wheat Blossom Midge
A small orange-colored gall midge that lays eggs in wheat flowers. Its bright orange larvae feed on developing wheat grains, causing significant yield losses in cereal crops.
Did You Know?
Larvae can enter diapause in the soil for over a decade, emerging years later when conditions are favorable.
Queen of Spain Fritillary
A powerful-flying fritillary with large, brilliant silver spots covering the underside of its hindwings. It is a restless migrant that can appear far outside its usual range.
Did You Know?
Its massive silver underwing spots are thought to startle predators by flashing in flight like mirrors.