Screwworm Fly vs Semaphore Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Screwworm Fly | Semaphore Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cochliomyia hominivorax | Poecilobothrus nobilitatus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Calliphoridae | Dolichopodidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Gardens |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Central America, South America, Caribbean | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
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.
Semaphore Fly
A tiny metallic green fly where males have conspicuous white-tipped wings used in semaphore-like courtship displays. It is extremely common around garden ponds and puddles.
Did You Know?
Males stand on mud and wave their white-tipped wings like semaphore flags to attract females watching nearby.