Petroleum Fly vs Canada Darner
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Petroleum Fly | Canada Darner |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Helaeomyia petrolei | Aeshna canadensis |
| Order | Diptera | Odonata |
| Family | Ephydridae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | 5 mm | 62-72 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Petroleum Fly
The only insect whose larvae develop in crude petroleum. Found in natural oil seeps in California, including the La Brea Tar Pits. Larvae eat insects trapped in the oil.
Did You Know?
This is the only animal on Earth that develops in crude oil — a substance toxic to virtually all other life. Its larvae swim through petroleum and breathe through snorkel-like tubes.
Canada Darner
A common large darner of northeastern North America with blue and green markings. Its notched thoracic stripes help distinguish it from similar species.
Did You Know?
Its thoracic side stripes have a distinctive notch that separates it from the very similar Lake Darner.