Peruvian Sandfly vs Hairy-footed Flower Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peruvian Sandfly | Hairy-footed Flower Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phlebotomus perniciosus | Anthophora plumipes |
| Order | Diptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Apidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 14-16 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, North Africa | Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe |
| 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.
Hairy-footed Flower Bee
A fast-flying, plump solitary bee with males covered in tawny hair and females jet black. It is one of the earliest spring bees, often visiting pulmonaria and comfrey.
Did You Know?
Males hover in front of flowers like tiny hummingbirds, darting between blooms at high speed.