Peruvian Sandfly vs Indian Fritillary
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peruvian Sandfly | Indian Fritillary |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phlebotomus perniciosus | Argyreus hyperbius |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 55-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, North Africa | South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia |
| 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.
Indian Fritillary
Orange wings with rounded black spots; females have darker forewings with white patches. Females mimic the toxic Danaus chrysippus.
Did You Know?
Female-limited Batesian mimicry protects them while males retain the ancestral orange pattern.