Orthoclad Stream Midge vs South American Robber Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Orthoclad Stream Midge South American Robber Fly
Scientific Name Orthocladius oblidens Microstylum magnum
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Chironomidae Asilidae
Size 3-5 mm 30-40 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Grasslands
Diet Detritivores Predators
Regions Europe, North America South America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Orthoclad Stream Midge

A small non-biting midge typical of cold running water habitats. Larvae build silk tubes on stone surfaces in stream riffles.

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Did You Know?

Orthocladiinae midges are often the most species-rich insect group in pristine mountain streams.

South American Robber Fly

A large, elongate robber fly from tropical regions with a slender abdomen and long spiny legs. It hunts from exposed perches and can catch large prey relative to its body size.

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Did You Know?

Some tropical Asilidae species are among the largest predatory flies in the world, rivaling small dragonflies in wingspan.