Screwworm Fly vs Neotropical Metallic Wood Borer

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Screwworm Fly Neotropical Metallic Wood Borer
Scientific Name Cochliomyia hominivorax Euchroma gigantea
Order Diptera Coleoptera
Family Calliphoridae Buprestidae
Size 8-12 mm 40-80 mm
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Blood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Central America, South America, Caribbean Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Screwworm Fly

A devastating parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals. It was eradicated from North America using the sterile insect technique.

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Did You Know?

The sterile male release program that eradicated it from the US is considered one of the greatest triumphs in pest control history.

Neotropical Metallic Wood Borer

The largest jewel beetle in the Americas with iridescent green, red, and purple elytra. It is commonly found on dead or dying tropical hardwoods.

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Did You Know?

Indigenous peoples of the Amazon use its iridescent wing covers to make traditional jewelry and ceremonial ornaments.