Petroleum Fly vs Common Hawker
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Petroleum Fly | Common Hawker |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Helaeomyia petrolei | Aeshna juncea |
| Order | Diptera | Odonata |
| Family | Ephydridae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | 5 mm | 65-80 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Heathland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe, Asia, 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.
Common Hawker
A large, dark brown hawker dragonfly with blue and yellow spots. It favors upland and moorland habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.
Did You Know?
It is one of the hardiest dragonflies, flying in cool upland conditions where few other species venture.