Peruvian Sandfly vs American Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peruvian Sandfly | American Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phlebotomus perniciosus | Eupeodes americanus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 8-11 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Farmland |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, North Africa | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Peruvian Sandfly
A small sandfly found across the Mediterranean basin that is the primary vector of Leishmania infantum, which causes visceral leishmaniasis in dogs and humans in southern Europe. It is also a vector of Toscana virus, which causes meningitis. It breeds in stone walls and animal shelters.
Did You Know?
Canine leishmaniasis transmitted by this fly affects millions of dogs across southern Europe and is increasingly spreading northward with climate change.
American Hoverfly
A widespread North American hoverfly with yellow and black markings. Larvae are voracious aphid predators in crop fields.
Did You Know?
A single larva can consume several hundred aphids before pupating.