Petroleum Fly vs Hairy Whirligig Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Petroleum Fly | Hairy Whirligig Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Helaeomyia petrolei | Orectochilus villosus |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Ephydridae | Gyrinidae |
| Size | 5 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| 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.
Hairy Whirligig Beetle
A nocturnal whirligig beetle covered in fine golden hairs that trap air underwater. Unlike other whirligigs it hides under stones by day.
Did You Know?
It is the only European whirligig beetle that is primarily nocturnal rather than diurnal.