Peruvian Sandfly vs Villa Bee Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peruvian Sandfly | Villa Bee Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phlebotomus perniciosus | Villa hottentotta |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Bombyliidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 10-16 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Heathland |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, North Africa | Europe, Central Asia |
| 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.
Villa Bee Fly
A striking bee fly with dark-tipped wings and a stout, densely hairy body. Its larvae are parasitoids of moth caterpillars and pupae in the soil.
Did You Know?
Despite its fearsome appearance with dark smoky wings, it is a harmless nectar feeder that cannot bite or sting.